Last chance for Hammer to avoid the football scrapheap
Let’s be honest here, Kalvin Phillips has been awful since joining The Hammers on loan from Manchester City. His appearances have been marred by red cards and individual errors, resulting in West Ham conceding numerous goals.
In many respects, David Moyes’ decision to prioritise the signing of Phillips above all others appears foolish. If the midfielder arrived at West Ham with a valuation of £35-40m, it’s safe to say that figure has decreased by at least half.
Dropped by Gareth Southgate from the England squad, Phillips would have been dismayed to see Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo perform so well in his absence. However, the former Leeds man has an opportunity to reverse the decline in his career with a three-game audition for West Ham in the absence of Edson Alvarez.
Last chance for Hammer? Kalvin Philips has had an awful start to his Irons career
Edson Alvarez picked up his 10th yellow card of the Premier League season during the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa just before the break. This means the exceptional Mexican midfielder will miss West Ham’s upcoming matches against Newcastle on Saturday lunchtime and Tottenham on Tuesday night, as well as the first leg of next month’s quarter-final against Bayer Leverkusen in Europe.
Last glimmer of hope for failing Hammer
These three games in the next two weeks are crucial and will significantly influence West Ham’s season run-in. David Moyes may have to rely on Kalvin Phillips for all three matches, putting pressure on the 28-year-old to make an impact during his loan spell.
The outlook isn’t promising. West Ham’s record without Alvarez is dismal, with just one point from three league games and no wins. It’s tough to admit, but so far, our record with Phillips isn’t much better.
So the pressure is on. If Phillips performs well for The Irons, he will have an opportunity to reignite his career. Should he fail, it’s difficult to see him getting another chance.
