Manuel Pellegrini fires warning to Felipe Anderson as he eyes ‘Dimitri Payet’ role for star

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West Ham United may have endured a torrid start to life under Manuel Pellegrini but record signing Felipe Anderson has provided hope.

The Brazilian cost the Hammers £42 million during the summer.

And he looks to be slowly settling into life in the Premier League after a brilliant display in the unfortunate 3-1 defeat to Arsenal.

He was called upon to help change the game in West Ham’s favour against AFC Wimbledon in the cup too.

But supporters were disappointed with the former Lazio star’s showing in West Ham’s home defeat to Bournemouth.

‘Felipe needs to adapt his style’

Pellegrini’s side are back at the London Stadium this weekend for an increasingly crucial clash against Wolves.

Anderson will need to bring his A-game to ensure the Hammers do not head into the international break winless.

And Pellegrini has told the club’s official website that he has had to instruct the Brazilian midfielder to change his style in order to be a success in the Premier League.

“Felipe needs to adapt his style of play to the Premier League a little bit more – not to run with the ball so much because it’s difficult here with so many fast players,” Pellegrini told whufc.com.

“But when he has the ball, you feel that something different can happen.”

We’ve got (a new) Payet?

Effectively Pellegrini sees Anderson becoming the new Dimitri Payet at West Ham.

There has been a huge void since the majestic French star walked out on the Hammers in January 2017.

Anderson is a class act and West Ham will need him at his best this season.

It is a shame for the club and its fans that a serious knee injury has denied them a potentially exciting partnership between Anderson and his fellow South American Manuel Lanzini.

Pellegrini’s comments also hint at a change of role for Anderson which could fill the Payet void.

Boy from Brazil can fill void

The former Santos man has been shifted to a more central role during his time on the pitch in the last two games.

And West Ham have looked more dangerous as a result.

Jack Wilshere has failed to impress in an advanced midfield role so far.

So Anderson is likely to continue there, particularly if Pellegrini wants him to adapt and use his vision and skill as much as his pace out wide.

The supporters need a hero, they need a new Payet.

Step forward Felipe hero worship awaits.