The complexities of professional football are encapsulated beautifully in this story of a Hammers’ youngster destined for the big time – for whom everything went south – only to find he’s on the verge of returning to Premier league once again. Another example of ‘failing upwards’ or just the never ending optimism of football recruitment teams who look to steal an edge on opponents? It seems, however tried and found wanting players have been in the past, there is always, seemingly, another coach who’ll take a punt.
Such is the story for West Ham’s former ‘wonderkid’ Grady Diangana. The furore when he was sold in 2020 divided fans and players alike: Mark Noble took to his own social media account and took a pretty big swipe at the Hammers’ board for selling Diangana. “As captain of this football club I’m gutted, angry and sad that Grady has left, great kid with a great future,”
West Ham clearly didn’t think he had a future and took the £18 million on offer from the Baggies. Fast forward five years and Diangana has been released by West Brom out of contract after 202 games and 26 goals. Which would seem to justify West Hams decision to sell him: He’s never quite delivered on his young star potential.
But in news reported by yorkshirepost.co.uk it seems Diangana could be headed back -to the Premier League:
“Both Leeds and Wolverhampton Wanderers have been credited with interest in Diangana, who first arrived at The Hawthorns in 2019.” and even back as far as April, Leeds were reported in preparation for Diangana’s exit – “Grady Diangana transfer talks held as Leeds United start preparations” trumpeted the motleedsnews.com.
It would be brilliant to see a former Hammer make it after so many set backs: Just so long as he doesn’t score against the Irons next season. Which is kind of nailed – on guaranteed.
I wasn’t bothered in the least when he left, he had one one trick & got found out very quickly. He’ll not be a regular in the PL whoever he signs for, just simply wasn’t good enough⚒️⚒️
Never been consistent in the championship so doubt he’ll do much in the premier league good fart will knock him off his feet not worth big wages
Never fulfilled the potential shown while on loan, while showing flashes of ability hes a passenger im most games flattering to decieve and hits the ground if theres a high wind let alone a challenge, if he makes it in the prem ill eat my hat and everyone elses! Poor poor signing unable to translate ability into games apart from one good game in 10
Fantastic talent always been underrated you sound like a right bell end
Diangana released by Moyes who famously favors hard work over creativity when picking players .
His release is likely more to do with him being among the highest paid at West Brom and the club wanting to save money. looks like he’s been consistently given game time, so hardly a flop
Yeh good for him hope he gets the opportunity, he seemed a decent player and person.
It also justifies not letting Noble having too much influence over academy players coming or going.
This is very little evidence to claim that Noble shouldn’t have influence at academy level. There is a hell of a lot of evidence that sullivan shouldn’t though on many fronts.
Can say without doubt Noble has the best interests of the club at heart.
Your comment is ridiculous.