The exodus following West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League appears to be well underway following a statement from striker Callum Wilson this evening.
Okay, Wilson didn’t technically announce he was leaving, but there were enough hints and pointers throughout his social media message to strongly indicate that his time at the London Stadium is coming to an end.
Clearly, the former Newcastle striker, who joined the Hammers on a free transfer this summer, has been frustrated by his lack of game time throughout the campaign where he was often used as a super sub.
In fairness to Wilson, despite his reputation and history with injuries, he has remained available throughout the season under both Graham Potter and Nuno Espírito Santo.
The Portuguese head coach did attempt to offload Wilson during the January transfer window before ultimately deciding to keep him, with the striker then repaying that faith with some important goals which almost kept West Ham in the Premier League.
Speaking this evening, Wilson said:
“It hurts. We have failed as a team and definitely fallen short of everyone’s expectations.
“It was well documented that I had a history with West Ham, yet from the moment I arrived, I felt nothing but welcomed by all the fans here.
“I felt really good and positive coming into this season, and I believe I could have contributed more given the opportunity. As you could see, my time on pitch was very limited at times, but that was out of my control. I’ve always trained hard, kept my integrity, and given my all whenever I’ve been allowed to wear the iconic Claret and Blue shirt.
“I’m sad and extremely disappointed that it has ended this way. This club deserves so much better because there are so many unbelievable people behind the scenes that you fans don’t always get to see.
“For now, all I can say is thank you. Thank you to everyone who supported us. Your passion is amazing, and I truly hope you return to the Premier League, where you belong, as soon as possible.
“Take care,
Callum”
Wilson Frustrated By Limited Opportunities
One can hardly blame him.
Wilson is clearly good enough — and seemingly fit enough — to have played far more regularly than he did this season.
And whilst West Ham will certainly need experienced players in the Championship next year, it’s understandable why Wilson may not wish to remain at the club on a pay-as-you-play arrangement when there are likely to be better contracts and more regular football available elsewhere.
Best of luck, Callum.
A shout out to Callum Wilson – when he first signed the reception was luke warm at best – yet he has given his all when called upon – I think he might in fact be joint top scorer for us in the PL and he has never thrown his toys
Top man Callum and all the best for the future
I wish he would stay and be our new Teddy Sheringham
This is totally a wrong move from us he is exactly the type of player needed in the cship Guarantee goals at that level THE CIRCUS GOES ON YES WE NEED YOUNG STRIKERS BUT HIS EXPERIENCE AND GUIDANCE WOULD BE INVALUABLE TO THEM
Often saw Taty come off, Wilson on, while they are not like for like players which impacts how the whole team should now play. Only much later did a half-penny drop and manager played both together. 👏
All of that to say, NES never got the frontline humming (and they are good players), we just had periods when an individual hit a hot streak. First Bowen who then faded, then Summerville who also faded and glimpses from Taty & Wilson. Never saw good combinations and the 4-2-4 approach worked at first, but then maybe teams figured it out, but I noticed how there was a lot less movement upfront. When before Taty & Pablo interchanged at will, losing markers causing defences difficulties, this stopped. Pablo ranging less, Bowen within 2 yards of the sideline, Taty rarely dropping back to 10 with Pablo becoming a 9 for a short time, etc.
Same thing with David Moyes for me – never saw much intricacy upfront, little initiative and Antonio told to do it all on his tod, till he could not handle it anymore.
Journeyman mercenary. I guess he’ll be off to Saudi Arabia or mls now.
First Fulkrug and now Wilson, I hope we are not going back to the “we don’t need strikers” mantra of Potter? 😊⚒️⚒️
Previously stated whu are going to need strikers in their recruitment.
Wilson would have been an asset in champion league.
Wasn’t appreciated enough even after proving his fitness.