West Ham United: Pundit names which player David Moyes could axe for Kalvin Phillips at the London Stadium
We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…
Frank McAvennie believes West Ham star Tomas Soucek could be in “danger” of the axe from the starting eleven after Kalvin Phillips’ signing.
The Hammers confirmed the signing (26 January) of the Manchester City midfielder on a temporary loan deal until the end of the season.
The 28-year-old leaves the Etihad on a temporary basis due to his limited minutes under Pep Guardiola this season and there is believed to be no option for West Ham to sign him permanently in the summer.
Soucek has been an ever-present figure for the Hammers so far this season, scoring five goals from 20 appearances in the Premier League, whilst playing in all their six Europa League games scoring two goals.
However, Phillips’ addition could well mean his position in the team is under threat.
Speaking to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “Two or three years ago, we didn’t have the players to play the attractive brand of football, now we do.
“Mohammed Kudus, Lucas Paqueta and Jarrod Bowen are exceptional and key for Moyes but then there’s Edson Alvarez who I feel has been brilliant since he moved.
“Where will Phillips fit in? That’s the million-dollar question for Moyes. If West Ham want to play the exciting brand of football fans demand then they will likely pair Phillips and Alvarez.
“Soucek has scored some crucial goals but doesn’t help the way fans want to play at London Stadium so his spot is in real danger now.
“Phillips can help massively in the build-up and also can break up attacking plays which Soucek struggles to at times and for me, he’s an upgrade but it’s up to Moyes because we already know he’s a big fan of Soucek.
“It’s a difficult but great headache.”
In other West Ham news, the stance of another Premier League player who has been linked with the club has been revealed.
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