Callum Wilson should not have a starting role at West Ham United at this stage of his career – at least according to a section of the fanbase online.
Indeed, the fact that Wilson scored another last-minute winner for West Ham United against Everton prompted Hammers News to debate the topic of him starting more regularly with its readers and subscribers.
DISCUSS: Callum Wilson is NOT a starter for West Ham even despite his late goal vs Everton 👀
For his part, Wilson is frustrated by his lack of minutes at West Ham, which is perhaps natural for a player of his stature even at his stage of his career.
Still, when supporters were asked across this website’s TalkingPoints and Facebook platforms, a very clear answer emerged.
West Ham fans think Wilson should continue being a substitute
Following the dramatic win over Everton, it was put to our subscribers on TalkingPoints – a free, online community to discuss everything about the club – that Wilson should continue to perform the role of a substitute.
Am I onto something or should we have blind trust in Nuno? 🤔
His subs scare the life out of me sometimes!
Many agreed. One supporter wrote: “Wilson is not a starter at 34 years old, but he has a habit of making an impact on 60 minutes or so.”
Another added: “He should be given at least 30 minutes during the second half as he brings know how and experience.”
One response read: “He’s my favourite striker on the team. He scores. I think he’s perfect to come on at 60 [minutes].”
A loyal subscriber also wrote: “Wilson is only good for 45 mins he doesn’t close down defenders to stop counterattacks! I would play him when we need a result as he’s a poacher in the box and that’s where you need to leave him!”
Over on our Facebook platform, the story was the same. Asked if Wilson should start games, one fan responded with: “He’s a game changing super sub.”
“He does nothing for the team when he starts. A good bit-part player,” was another comment.
You can sign up to TalkingPoints and join thousands of others here.
How many minutes Wilson has played this season
In 31 appearances across all competitions this season, Wilson has amassed a total of 1,201 minutes thus far, which is significantly more than he mustered during his last campaign at Newcastle (458).
Part of the frustration must be that Wilson hasn’t actually played for more than 15 minutes since the defeat at Aston Villa.
Frankly, however, why would Nuno Espirito Santo change a winning formula? Neither Pablo Felipe nor Valentin Castellanos can hold a candle to Wilson when it comes to scoring goals, but their energy and industry give the team an entirely different approach.
Sadly for Wilson, he might have to get used to warming the bench for a prolonged period of time.
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