Despite an encouraging start, West Ham United are undergoing a shocking spell over the past couple of months. They are yet to win a game since defeating Manchester United back in September, and the summer signings have failed miserably in meeting expectations.
The pressure is on Manuel Pellegrini who might explore the winter transfer window to turn things around. But he is unlikely to rely on Sead Hakšabanović even though the youngster has impressed on loan, according to Claret and Hugh (via Hammers News).
The 20-year-old was roped in from Halmstad for £2.7m back in the summer of 2017. But the Swedish-born Montenegrin was never considered for Premier League minutes and was loaned out to Malaga a year later after a couple of Cup appearances only. He, however, struggled to attain gametime in Spain too and was shipped back to Sweden to get his career back on track.
Back In Form, Still Not Enough To Impress Pellegrini
Meanwhile, the spell with IFK Norrköping has turned out to be productive for Hakšabanović having featured in various roles. Predominantly a ‘number 10’, the Montenegro international exhibited his excellence on both the flanks as well as in central midfield.
He has fired in 6 goals and assisted eight times in 29 league appearances, but has failed to stake a claim in Pellegrini’s plans as reported by Claret and Hugh.
The Chilean sees no future for the youngster in East London and is likely to loan him out again or even offload permanently if any substantial offer is tabled to secure his services. Although the demand and expectations are much higher in the Premier League compared to Allsvenskan, the form Hakšabanović is in means that he deserves an opportunity to justify his worth.
Why He Should Have Been Tried Out Once At West Ham United
The Hammers are on a dire run where most of their key individuals have underperformed. His versatility could have been utilised to challenge the likes of Andriy Yarmolenko, Felipe Anderson, Robert Snodgrass and Michail Antonio down the wide areas, and also to cover Manuel Lanzini and Pablo Fornals who are yet to live up to the hype.
Hakšabanović returned to England this week to represent his nation, and despite being hammered 7-0 at Wembley Stadium, his performance was lauded by the West Ham fans; many of whom suggested that the young attacker should be reintegrated with their current set-up. He had his moments in the match, but was let down by his teammates time and again while operating in the advanced areas.
