According to a recent report by the Evening Standard, West Ham United centre-back Winston Reid is set to make a return to the playing field and feature for the Hammers U-23 side after recovering from his long-term knee injury. The New Zealand international sustained a serious knee problem against Swansea City back in March 2018 and has since been out of action for the East Londoners.
Reid’s Injury-Ridden Spell At The London Stadium
The Auckland born centre-half has been a loyal servant for West Ham since making a switch from FC Midtjylland in the summer of 2010. Reid’s return to play for the club’s Under-23 side will be a welcome bit of news for anyone associated with the Hammers.
The Kiwi defensive ace has featured in a total of 167 matches in the Premier League, netting six goals while creating six assists thus far. More importantly, Reid has made an average 1.5 tackles, 2.1 interceptions and 7.8 clearances per match during his career in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Despite his brilliant defensive contributions, the New Zealand international is yet to win any trophies with the Hammers. Injuries have hampered Reid’s career in English football in recent years. Only time will tell whether the 31-year-old will be able to establish himself as a first-team starter once again under Manuel Pellegrini’s expert stewardship at the English capital. He has also represented New Zealand in 24 international matches and has registered one goal for his homeland in the process.
What Does The Kiwi Centre-Back Offer On The Field?
Reid is a commanding presence at the back as he tends to win a lot of headers inside his own box and can lead his backline with authority and conviction. He is a decent defender who can make some vital clearances for his side and is also a great tackler inside his own half. However, there is no hiding the fact that Reid could turn out to be a shadow of his former self when he makes his return after being sidelined for 18 months for the Hammers.
Reid Set To Make A Comeback: Big Boost For The East London Giants?
Pellegrini would keep his fingers crossed and hope that the Kiwi can prove his fitness and regain his old form when he makes his return to first-team action in the coming weeks. The Chilean head coach needs Reid’s help and leadership to increase competition and get the better out of Issa Diop, Fabian Balbuena and Angelo Ogbonna at the back.
Therefore, Reid’s comeback for the West Ham U-23’s will be a massive boost for the Hammers boss and his side’s chances of securing a top 6 finish in the top tier of England at the end of this campaign. The 31-year-old defender will not only add more depth to Pellegrini’s backline but will also be a calming influence inside the West Ham dressing room.
