Pablo could save Nuno Espirito Santo after QPR showcase – He’s what West Ham need
Pablo could prove to be the man to help Nuno Espirito Santo avoid the sack at West Ham.
Pablo signed for West Ham from Gil Vicente early in the January window and has now made two appearances for the Hammers.
The Brazilian joined alongside Taty Castellanos, who signed for West Ham from Lazio, and both have come straight into the side to make an impact.
The duo both featured as West Ham secured a 2-1 victory over QPR in the FA Cup third round, on a day where no one truly covered themselves in glory.
Pablo was a standout for the Irons and, despite not getting on the scoresheet, proved exactly what sort of difference he could make under Nuno.
Pablo made positive impression vs QPR
The signing of Pablo was confusing for many at West Ham, who were unsure why the Irons would gamble on the Brazilian in their current state.
He may have scored 10 across 14 games in Portugal this season, but the Premier League is a whole different ball game.
There were some signs on debut against Nottingham Forest that the forward could make a difference at the London Stadium, only reinforced with his substitute appearance against QPR.
Pablo was brought on for the injured Konstantinos Mavropanos before the interval and may not have put in the most statistically excellent performance, but certainly put in a shift.
The attacker managed to create two chances for his teammates with his 74 per cent pass accuracy and also made one clearance while chipping in with five recoveries.
It is that sort of work rate which the Hammers have been missing and something which could prove to be hugely important for Nuno’s job prospects.
Nuno Espirito Santo needs to trust Pablo at West Ham
Nuno may see a 10 per cent duel success rate and a failure to take a single shot or complete a dribble, and think better of utilising Pablo.
That sort of mindset could prove to be damaging moving forward, as his work rate, initially, should be enough for him to feature regularly.
The narrow victory against QPR shouldn’t be the be-all and end-all, but should allow the forward to pick up more regular minutes in East London.
There were plenty of features to appreciate about the Brazilians performance, and his desire to press and bother defenders was encouraging.
In a season where that trait has been few and far between, he has earned the chance to prove himself in the Premier League.
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