West Ham’s record signing Felipe Anderson is primarily a creative player; he was brought to east London to help Manuel Pellegrini introduce a more adventurous style of play.
However, with four games of the season gone and no points on the board, the Hammers needed fight at Goodison Park against Everton.
Anderson may not have looked too well suited to that, but produced an energetic performance with contributions at both ends. We’ve taken a look at the numbers that prove it…
The Numbers
Anderson was fielded as part of a front three and contributed at the sharp end of the pitch. His three key passes were more than anyone else in claret and blue.
He also embarked on two dribbles – no Hammer made more – and was fouled twice as well. But the numbers also prove he made a defensive contribution on that left hand side.
Four tackles, three interceptions and a clearance are not the figures of a luxury player. Anderson rolled up his sleeves and got stuck in.
The fans will love the spirit
On the basis of Anderson’s early West Ham performances, there were doubts over whether he would do the defensive work required to be an effective winger.
However, on the left of a three-man frontline, he was able to make a contribution both offensively and defensively. That is exactly what Pellegrini and the fans will want to see.
If it continues, the Hammers could have a front three capable of making waves in the top flight.
Receive a digest of our best West Ham content each week direct to your mailbox
