West Ham striker Callum Marshall has continued to impress in pre-season following his successful loan spell at Huddersfield Town.
The Northern Ireland international has already scored against Grasshoppers and Ipswich Town, and he impressed again in last night’s 2-1 friendly win over Everton.
At the risk of labouring the point, it seems foolish for the Hammers to chase injury-prone 33-year-old Callum Wilson when we already have such a talented young forward on the books.
Marshall not only has a keen eye for goal but also for a pass—as demonstrated by his clever flick to Lucas Paquetá that set up West Ham’s third goal against Grasshoppers.
But it’s his high energy and relentless work rate that could give Graham Potter the strongest reason to trust the 20-year-old from Glengormley.
Early signs suggest we’ll see a more high-pressing West Ham this season, and there’s simply no way Wilson could match Marshall’s intensity. Last night, Marshall was a constant menace to Everton’s backline. At one point, he jinked past one defender, nutmegged another, and was hacked down—earning West Ham a free-kick.
I’m sure none of this has gone unnoticed by Potter and his coaching staff.
Wilson might be available on a ‘pay-as-you-play’ deal with minimal financial risk—but signing him would almost certainly block the pathway of an academy striker who is improving game by game.
Hmm. I think that Callum Marshall might be the closest thing I’ve seen to Jamie Vardy since Jamie Vardy.
I think I would sooner keep Antonio at least he is not as injury prone and loves the shirt
Let’s just hope we don’t get wilson
Fully agree. Only caveat from me would be IF… we dont sign another striker then Wilson would offer 50% cover (at best).
I thought Marshall was unlucky to com off at half time he was very busy and played well so i can only assume the plan was for the wholesale changes at half time irresoective of performance just to get players game time.
Buying Callum Wilson would be a retrograde step as he lacks pace and is extremely injury prone, so giving Marshall more game time looks a sound idea given his pace and workrate.
I also thought Potts had an excellent game and looks more composed thant Rodriguiz who took that role at half time.
Well said Gonzo. If we did get Wilson it would be a kick in the teeth for our young guns
Yes, I thought the unfinished product that is West Ham looked pretty good. The academy players impressed. I also thought Andy Irving was quite good. It was a nice shot from Fullkrug which won the game. I also think we definitely need a reliable quality keeper as soon as possible. I was a little puzzled by Diouf’s very average game this time.
100%, Gonzo.
Of course, managers typically take the cautious approach, citing that they’re ‘not ready’ and are still learning. Any player (or person for that matter) is always learning at every point of their career, so that’s madness for me. If they produce more than an alternative person, they should get the nod. He held his own against some big, burly defenders last night and I see no reason not to give him his break. Him and Fullkrug side by side is something I’d love to see. The new Cottee & McAvennie… 😉
100% agree Buddy. Maybe you should write a letter to Potter and let him know your thoughts.