‘Chasing and aggressive tackling- brilliant‘ enthuses the commentator. How badly have West Ham United been in need of midfield talent prepared to run chase and tackle this season: ‘The midfield that cannot run’ is a talent-free zone this and is largely responsible for West Ham’s toothless performances.
The dispatch, on a season long loan by Lopetegui, of young Hammer George Earthy was criticised by many in August last year – me included- but West Ham will reap the rewards of having a very different, mentally and physically toughesr George Earthy arrive back after a season in the Championship.
Bristol City fans love him: he’s been a right-wing back, a substitute, a midfielder- he’s scored goals and from the video clip attached he’s got stronger, faster and pretty tough to beat: Take a look at Earthy at his combative best being given a standing ovation by home fans after his closing down in the last minutes to hold on to the win for his loan side:
https://t.co/aySf6mDvDU pic.twitter.com/WvR04YjN6d
— Bristol City FC (@BristolCity) April 6, 2025
In this instance, West Ham’s benefit will be to receive George Earthy back and ready to rock as part of a young, lively aggressive midfield in preseason. From the looks of the video, the club may have dispatched a young boy out on loan and are going to receive a young man back just 12 months later. With both Earthy and Freddie Potts due back from season-long loans, the Hammers will be bursting with young ambitious fit battle hardened midfielders.
I think you are overestimating George’s impact on Bristol City this season. He has not been able to get into their team and his goals tally is 2 (both tap ins). He will have improved and matured unquestionably and his enthusiasm and work ethic have always been good. But having seen him this season in a number of games, he doesn’t get involved as much as I would like him to and tends to be on the periphery of matches. I would be tempted to loan him out again as I don’t think he’s ready for Premier League matches.
Completely agree. Out of our four biggest prospects on loan, (Potts, Earthy, Marshall and Kodua), only Potts has nailed down a regular starting spot. He is probably the only one with a chance of being ready for the first team. The others could do with another season on loan in the championship when hopefully they too will become regular starters and we will reap the benefits in the subsequent season.
Different positions
Guilherme needs to be kept and sent out on loan.
Perhaps if Earthy is on his way back they can change places?
Excellent idea.