A season that started reasonably brightly, quickly descended into chaos and then turned itself round again – such is the fate of the West Ham fan, that nothing is ever straight forward. My pre season expectations were pretty much met, with a 9th position achieved and injuries preventing us from going further. However, I did not expect to feel as optimistic as I do going into the Summer.
Curbs going was a semi shock, but I always felt his timing had been wrong. Before Pardew was appointed, there seemed to be the right momentum for Curbishley, but post Pardew it seemed we had swapped like for like. His resignation left an interesting void, one which the board could have easily messed up. I clamoured for Bilic and still think he would be a great manager for us, however, the board went with a vision presented to them by a legendary football but one without much in the way of managerial experience. But what a presentation it must have been as I could not be happier with Gianfranco Zola as West Ham manager.
There was a decent start followed by a wobble, but rather than act like an impatient Newcastle fan, I and fellow Hammers waited to see where this was going. There was decent passing and attack moves but the defence was still a little shaky. Enter Steve Clark to sort things out and suddenly we looked like a decent team. Players who were poor became good (Cole, Boa Morte), players who were good became excellent (Parker, Behrami) and youngsters who have got it could shine (Tomkins, Collison). We could not only pass the ball nicely but we could battle as well, the 1-0 win at Wigan personifying the new steel in the West Ham side.
It’s a testament to the team that in looking at who we would we want to go in the Summer sales, not many names drop. The sad part is that any decent offer for Dean Ashton must be considered, although I also feel that he owes us for being out so long and getting paid for it. Di Michele can certainly go. Tristan, if he is not too expensive could be a useful squad member for a year. Sears must go out on loan. On the other side, the nucleus of Green, Upson, Parker and Cole must all stay. Lucas Neill has apparently refused the terms of a new contract. Although he had an outstanding season, he is dispensable at his age, a pacey right back in his place would do just fine, come home to roost Glen Johnson? A new striker and a new centre midfielder are the key elements we need for next season. Outside of that, not too much tinkering with the squad is required.
It turned out to be a very entertaining season without a relegation battle. Thanks to the players and management for making it so. Don’t about you, but I’m knackered and looking forward to a bit of a footballing holiday. On that note, West Ham Blog will be taking a bit of a breather over the Summer, though if we sign Iniesta, of course you will hear it here first. But will certainly be back for next season, crikey, I’m looking forward to it already....have a great Summer Hammers.....
