Not so long ago, before Aaron Wan Bissaka joined after the longest drawn out saga of the window, West Ham United were linked with another right back who was considered by many an ideal choice for a Lopetegui-style Hammers team. Despite the successful recruiting of Wan Bissaka, the rumours now of Vlad Coufal not being content to sit out the season as a ‘squad’ player mean the possibility of bringing in another defender who could play on either flank have resurfaced.
A useful back up if Coufal moves on- Kieran Trippier
Reported today in TBRFootball is the curious case of Kieran Trippier‘s ‘Private Box’ at Newcastle United, with his name having ben removed, possibly in advance of an exit from the club. The 33 year-old no longer features in Newcastle’s starting XI and has been turning out for the reserves: ‘Trippier strangely featured in the 1-1 draw between Newcastle’s U21 side and Sunderland’s U21s on Monday night after being left on the bench by Eddie Howe in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Southampton.’
Trippier, having been relieved of the club captaincy for this season is now a prime candidate for a move and appears highly motivated to keep his match fitness – so much so that he is prepared to play in the reserves which in my humble opinion is a lesson to some of our own bench-sitters: An exemplary attitude not shared by many and an indication that a move could be imminent.
If a move is on the cards it would be a shrewd move for The Hammers to recruit a senior player as a ‘back-up’ defender who can play at either left or right back: Of course even just six weeks ago Trippier featured in England’s Euro 24 campaign.
If Coufal’s decision is to leave or be sold, then Trippier, with 11 months on his contract, may well be a bargain in the market who can do a job if called upon.
In fairness, TBR finish their report by stating that “it is also possible that West Ham no longer want a new right-back” after the Wan Bissaka signing. Whilst that is my initial reaction to their renewed suggestion of a West Ham move- all eyes will be on Vlad Coufal now to see if he wants ‘out’ in the search for regular first team football.
Please NO!!