Why Arne Engels is out to prove people wrong amid 'strange' West Ham transfer development

Arne Engels may have to earn his respect at West Ham United.

The Hammers signed the midfielder from Celtic for a record deal worth £22million on a five-year contract.

He became a fan favourite at Celtic Park for his contributions in the last two seasons, most notably with goals and assists coming from midfield.

Nuno Espirito Santo was always keen to sign a replacement for Mateus Fernandes, and Engels quickly emerged as the favoured target.

He made his debut for the Irons in the 2-1 loss to Charlton Athletic on Sunday, and will be hoping for better results to follow this season.

However, despite Engels costing West Ham a hefty fee, there are still some doubts over his decision to join the Hammers.

Arne Engels decision to leave Celtic for West Ham called 'strange'

Engels started next to Mohamadou Kante in West Ham's awful defeat to Charlton, as the latter was hooked at halftime.

Lewis Orford could be his main midfield partner this season, but with the window open, Nuno could yet push for another man to bolster his side in the middle of the park.

Engels played the full game against the Addicks, but a loss has provided an early-season setback for the Hammers.

While speaking on Open Goal, former Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack has explained his confusion at the Belgian leaving Celtic for the London Stadium.

Jack said: "I still think it's a strange move, Engels. To leave Celtic to go to West Ham.

"West Ham are a huge club, but you've got a chance to play in the Champions League with Celtic; I don't get it."

It may especially draw even more attention if West Ham fail to achieve promotion, as that five-year contract may be good for nothing next summer.

What can West Ham expect from Engels moving forward

While one game isn't enough data to show what Engels will fully offer Nuno and West Ham, it did give a slight insight into what the Hammers can expect.

The 22-year-old kept the game ticking over for the Irons, boasting an impressive 90 per cent passing accuracy.

He created three chances from deep in midfield, but also provided defensive cover, making two tackles and clearances as well as an interception and five recoveries.

Engels will offer West Ham goals and assists if his time at Celtic is anything to go by, but he may just need some time to settle in.