Ian Holloway has sent emphatic message to West Ham fans over the future of star striker Marko Arnautovic.
Hammers linked with quality replacements
Arnautovic was reportedly behaving like a model professional ever since the initial bid. But reports now suggest the star has withdrawn from West Ham’s squad for the game against Bournemouth as he is ‘not in the right frame of mind’.
West Ham have been linked with a host of potential replacements including Krzysztof Piatek and Maxi Gomez – read full story here.
But whatever happens West Ham fans need not fret.
That is according to popular manager Ian Holloway who told Sky Sports’ The Debate that ‘sensational’ Pellegrini already has plans in place whatever the outcome.
‘West Ham don’t need to be worried’
“I’m so glad he’s (Pellegrini) gone in there and how well he’s done, he’s just sensational,” Holloway told The Debate.
“I wouldn’t (be worried about Arnautovic’s future if I was at West Ham. I think Arnautovic is a fantastic player.
“(But) Pellegrini’s knowledge of who he might get and who might come because of his reputation (as a top class manager), he’ll have a plan, I don’t think West Ham need to be worried.
“West Ham have had enough grief (over the years) to lose him right now (when they’re looking a) wonderful team, I mean (Felipe) Anderson is looking brilliant isn’t he at times, so I want to see him stay really.”
All in hand?
Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande entered the running for Arnautovic’s signature on Friday night (Sky Sports).
It seems the best West Ham can hope for now is a bidding war.
The more they can get the more Pellegrini will have at his disposal for a top quality replacement.
Ironically the deal could end up making West Ham a better team.
If the fee enables West Ham to strengthen with younger, hungrier players and in possibly two areas of the squad it starts to seem like a no-brainer.