West Ham's Infamous Striker Problem

In my lifetime, (I was born in 1990), I can only remember one striker that has been a great player for us, and that

man is Paolo Di Canio. Dean Ashton looked set to be a superb player, until a horrific injury on International

Duty ruined any chance of a dazzling career. Other than that, there has been nobody honestly worth

mentioning. Of course, we now have Michail Antonio but as most Hammers fans will tell you he’s not a

striker, he’s a converted winger. Luckily, we’ve had players from midfield or wide areas that often chip in

with goals but this is an issue that needs to be addressed in the summer transfer window.

Tony Cottee was the last player to score 20 goals in a league season back in 1987... 33 years ago!

Why has this been such a problematic position for us to fill?

In recent memory it’s the lack of investment by the board, coupled with some players that either didn’t fit the way we’re playing, didn’t accommodate for their style of play or they were just terrible. We just can’t seem to find a number 9 who just bangs them in for fun. In a league where games can be so tight, taking the chances you have come your way is imperative. Often we are left saying “It would have been a different game if we scored then” or “We should have scored that”. If West Ham truly want to become a European contender we must find a number 9 who can emulate the greats of the past.

But, who?

Ahh yes, the grand old question of who? Who fits the system? Who is available? Who can we afford?

Who let the dogs out? Who, who, who.

That is certainly down to the Moyes, Newman and the scouts to decide. We need to go and spend big

money to get the kid of striker we crave but needs must. When you look at Moyes’ team we will be after

someone who is strong, pacey, good in the air, works hard and has the composure to take chances

when they’re presented. It’s not easy to find someone to fit all these attributes but it can be done. As I’m

writing this we are a team that’s still in the Europa League and who lie 5th in the Premier League. It shouldn’t be difficult to attract a big name striker to the club this summer.

Until then, concentrate on now and I can’t wait to watch Part 2 of the Sevilla match-up.

“We’re all going on a European Tour”

COYI

@Penfold_CR