The left-back area isn’t such a big problem for West Ham but there’s no doubt it could easily be upgraded, with both Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Cresswell struggling to make a real mark this term.
Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Cresswell have played in rotation this season as West Ham chief Manuel Pellegrini has found it difficult to trust either of them as his first-choice at left-back.
Masuaku started the season for the Hammers but his performances were poor in the first three Premier League games, forcing Pellegrini to drop him. Pellegrini brought in Cresswell for the fourth league game against Wolves but the Englishman royally struggled to cope with the opposition’s pacey attackers as West Ham lost 1-0.
After the defeat against Wolves, Pellegrini again restored to having Masuaku in the starting XI. The constant chopping and changing since then has not allowed the Chilean manager to settle down on a first-choice at left-back with over half the season played.
Cresswell has been trusted in recent games and although he did very well in the 1-0 win over Arsenal, he is nearing 30. Masuaku, perhaps, is a more effective option on the left wing rather than the backline. As a result, Pellegrini should look for a long-term solution in that position to match the club’s renewed ambitions.
That said, West Ham must make a move for Stade de Reims defender Ghislain Konan this month. Ghislain Konan, 23, has enjoyed a stellar campaign with Stade de Reims in Ligue 1, managing 20 league games so far. The Ivorian has done well in France, striking a good balance between his attacking endeavours and defensive duties.
The 23-year-old is an accomplished passer of the ball, meaning he would fit in nicely with Pellegrini’s possession-based attack. Ghislain Konan is excellent going forward, whipping crosses into the box and creating chances for his teammates.
While excelling at the offensive aspects of the game, the four-cap Ivory Coast international doesn’t shy away from his defensive responsibilities and gives everything on the pitch.
If Ghislain Konan is interested in making a step up and West Ham are willing to pay a good amount of money in the ongoing transfer window, he could be worth the investment.
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