In a recent interview with fanpage.it, West Ham United defender Angelo Ogbonna has offered an update on his future. The Italian centre-back said,
“In football, anything can happen, but I still have 2 years here at West Ham where I feel good. Mou is a great coach and I didn’t expect him to be sacked before the cup final, it was shocking. But everyone has their own path. . It is right to respect today’s positions ”
Ogbonna’s Impressive Form At East London This Season
Ogbonna is having an impressive campaign at the London Stadium as he has been responsible for producing a few solid displays at the centre of the Hammers backline. The ex-Torino defensive ace has made 28 appearances for David Moyes’ side this term, netting two goals in the process across all fronts.
The 32-year-old has proven his consistency by averaging 1.0 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 4.1 clearances per game in the Premier League this season. He has even distributed the ball relatively well after completing 81.8% of his attempted passes in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Ogbonna’s current deal at the London Stadium is set to expire at the end of next season, so West Ham will have to decide on whether to cash in on him this summer or try to tie the veteran defender to a new contract.
Should The Hammers Let Ogbonna Go This Summer?
Ogbonna can use his strong 1.91m frame to dominate the opposition and win some important 50-50 aerial duels for his side. He is often quick to react to the danger that allows him to earn possession back on the defensive side of the field.
The Italian defender can also position himself well to make a clearance when required. However, at 32, father time is catching up with his game, so the Hammers would be better off cashing in on him this summer rather than risk losing him as a free agent in the summer of 2022.
David Moyes has still got Craig Dawson, Issa Diop, Fabian Balbuena and Frederik Alves fighting for a first-team place in his match-day squad. Hence it makes sense for the Hammers boss to move Ogbonna on and use the money generated from his sale to bring in a younger replacement at the end of this campaign.
