New West Ham United winger Adama Traoré hardly set the world alight in his first start for the Hammers against Burton Albion yesterday.
That said, there were glimpses of the player West Ham thought they were getting, particularly when he powered up the afterburners and reminded everyone he still possesses that electric turn of pace.
Ideally, you’d like to see more quality against League One opposition. But for the opening period of the second half at least, Traoré was arguably the best of a bad bunch.
After the break, there was one driving run straight through the middle where he demonstrated his strength and dribbling ability. That was followed by a burst down the wing which, on another day, could have been converted by Callum Wilson after a decent cross.
Squad Depth Was Always the Aim
It felt like baby steps from a player who was never realistically going to displace Crysencio Summerville or Jarrod Bowen in the starting XI — but that was never the point of the signing.
The real question is whether Traoré can offer those two a breather late in games.
On yesterday’s evidence, we’re probably none the wiser. But West Ham needed depth in attacking areas, and Traoré does at least provide that.
Based on his Burton showing, he offered more than Keiber Lamadrid and Callum Wilson, but not as much as Summerville or Taty Castellanos — which probably reflects exactly where he currently sits in the pecking order.
Traoré himself seemed content with his outing, saying:
“So happy to have more minutes in the clock. I think it was nice to start the game and help the team. I’m happy to feel the pitch again for a long time.”
No fireworks. No headline performance.
But as squad options go, it was a useful first step I guess.
Can’t say I agree with you, Gonzo. In the two games that I have seen him, he doesn’t appear to offer anything to the team – other than an extra body, but to what end ?
I still think he can play centrally. When Taty and/or Pablo tire he can run around harassing the opposition back four. He won’t score many but he may be able to keep that intensity shown by the other two.
He had a very strong run up the pitch with the ball that encouraged me – the sort of burst forwards that helps relieve pressure late on in a game. So I think he can do a job for us as a sub.