Opinion

5 London-based players who West Ham should consider this January

Add as preferred source on Google

West Ham’s season is on a downward spiral and something needs to happen quickly.

Whether that is a managerial change, a switch in formation, using the youngsters or something else; it needs to happen. If West Ham do not start picking up results soon, a relegation battle could await.

West Ham’s poor form could prompt the owners into spending some money in the summer, depending on what you believe about available funds. Here are five local players that could help West Ham turn their fortunes around.

Eberechi Eze

(Photo by Andrew Kearns – CameraSport via Getty Images)

Queens Park Rangers midfielder Eberechi Eze looks like a stunning talent. The 21-year-old plays as an attacking midfielder and his performances have lifted QPR into promotion contention.

Eze has scored six goals and provided four assists in 16 Championship games this season. The England U21 starlet is a ball-carrying threat and West Ham have been lacking that.

Said Benrahma

(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Brentford winger Said Benrahma is another creative player who could spark West Ham into life. The Hammers are missing some pace and directness on the wings and the Algerian star would provide that.

The 24-year-old has scored 13 goals and provided 19 assists since joining the Bees in summer 2018. The more he plays in England, the better he will get.

Victor Wanyama

(Photo credit: JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)

West Ham desperately need a physical central midfielder to sit alongside Declan Rice. While things are not working out for Victor Wanyama at Tottenham Hotspur, a move to West Ham could work for all parties.

The Kenya international is a proven performer when fit and firing. But he needs a fresh start and he would be guaranteed game time in West Ham’s weak midfield.

Granit Xhaka

(Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Another option for the holding midfield role is Arsenal outcast Granit Xhaka. The Swiss midfielder has been ostracised since swearing at the fans following a barrage of abuse.

Xhaka will not be everyone’s cup of tea but he undoubtedly provides some midfield bite and tenacity that the current midfielders lack. If he gets back to his best form, Xhaka could be an asset for the Irons.

Olivier Giroud

(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)

West Ham also need a striker. All of last season’s forwards were sold and not adequately replaced. One injury to Sebastien Haller would put the Hammers in deep trouble.

Olivier Giroud, who has dropped to third choice at Chelsea, would be the ideal short-term replacement. The French striker is a proven Premier League goalscorer and he would be cheap, considering his contract expires next summer.