This player’s transformation has been inspiring

Mauro Zarate’s transformation from unwanted outcast to firmly entrenched first team squad player has been both inspiring and informative.

And it demonstrates what can happen when a player’s personality becomes understood by the manager.

It’s well known that he was a signing decided by the board but that needs explaining: every WHUFC manager has an agreed budget each season but when another player is suggested to him, and accepted, additional cash is made available.

That’s what happened in the case of Zarate but many insiders have told ClaretandHugh, he was barely welcomed to the club, always seen as a fringe player and not a serious part of things – as was eventually demonstrated by his departure to QPR on loan.

There too he had an uncomfortable experience and eventually returned to Upton Park desperately low on the one thing that makes him tick as a footballer – confidence.

The arrival of Slaven Bilic – a lover of invention and flair – has changed the boy’s life and whilst he frustrates at times his ability has shone through brightly in the absence of first Dimi Payet and then Manuel Lanzini.

David Gold claims: “We have known Mauro since Birmingham days and he is s a confidence player – he needs to feel wanted.

“He always believes he should be in or around the first team squad and his transformation is all down to Slaven Bilic.

“Yes, he could have moved on but we’re glad he stuck things out and can feel very proud of himself. He’s happy, settled and wants to stay at West Ham.”

Personally, I like him. Yes he can be too easily shoved off the ball on occasions but he has genuine skill and the various types of goal he has scored shows he has serious ability.

He cost next to nothing and would be worth a minimum of £3-£4 million now. Shows what a little bit of TLC can do doesn’t it.