Mark Noble has dropped the heaviest of hints that Chicharito may and perhaps should have a Hammers future next season.
The captain was thrilled and relieved to see the Mexican international find the net against Chelsea as the Hammers earned their fabulous point at Chelsea.
The Hernandez future has been a vexed question all season with him perhaps not entirely suitsing the pattern David Moyes wants to play.
But his eight goals are convincing proof that he does what every striker should do – find the net – and it’s hard to wave farewell to players of that ability.
Noble was keen to sing his praises after the match at Stamford Bridge and said: “Chicharito is a goal machine -“ he gets one chance and scores.
“He’s probably not played as many minutes as he would have liked but probably down to the way the season has gone.
“But when you can bring him on, as soon as it fell to him I’m standing right behind him and there were about ten bodies in front, but you know he will find that spot and that’s why he’s the player he is.
“The second half display had everything. We defended well and I thought we kept the ball a lot better, but Chelsea are a top team and they have some really clever players, particularly the front three.
“But we kept our shape and kept playing the way we know we can do, we defended well and we came away with a point. We’re over the moon.”
Six games to play and six points above the relegation places . Wow , what a nervy season we are having and it’s far from over . Are finding some form at long last ? , looks like it . We were really nervy against Chelsea which shouldn’t be a surprise , but Chelsea have a great side . Hart kept us in it and Chicareto found the net . It was a massive point for us and sets us up for points total that could see us safe ; if we continue to be positive . Still think 38 will do it . Fantastic news that AC is more or less available . He brings us more options if he is used properly . Would love to see both Carroll & Hernandez in the squad for next season .
Our injury problems really do need to be addressed and arrested . It’s been more than daft this season ( and last ) and our game has constantly changed because of it . A consistent team builds confidence , but we haven’t had that luxury . Unless we totally collapse we should get over the line and be a Premiership side for 2018/19 . It’s a must win game for Stoke City so don’t expect an easy game or count chickens . Reckon we’ll get 3 points though .
COYHAMMERS