West Ham’s struggles to find consistency in the final third under Manuel Pellegrini could lead to changes in the coming months.
With Javier Hernandez inability to replicate the fine form he showed at Manchester United and Andy Carroll remaining on the sidelines through injury, the Hammers have utilised Marko Arnautovic in a centre-forward line.
The Austria international has caught the eye at times but greater depth is needed in the final third, which could lead Pellegrini to look into his youth ranks for inspiration – and West Ham fans believe there is one man ready to make an impact.
Currently fighting to return from injury, 21-year-old Xande Silva joined the Hammers in the summer and registered five goals and one assist in five matches for the U23 side before picking up an injury.
Posting a message on his new Twitter account, Xande Silva was met with a wealth of support from fans who believe he can be a useful asset for the senior squad.
We have gathered some of the best reactions below.
Take ur time mate we want u fit and firing again and who knows don't come back to quickly COYI
— TIGER and HAMMER (@JohnFloris41) November 13, 2018
Welcome,look forward to you in the first team and terrorising defences soon! COYI’S
— Alan Berrett (@BerrettAlan) November 12, 2018
Can’t wait to see you in the first team fellah
— Steve Mortlock (@SteveMortlock) November 11, 2018
And can’t wait to see you back on the pitch and in and around the first team
— andrew wickstead (@AndrewWickstead) November 11, 2018
Can’t wait to see what you can do in the first team! Good luck getting back from your injury
— Steve Brooke (@Hammer_Brooker) November 11, 2018
I’m sure you’ll be on the first team radar soon. Keep at it, you have a very bright future
— The Peacock Of Positivity (@TheRobTaylor32) November 11, 2018
Pushing for the first team in no time
— Jack Tamcken (@Tamcken) November 11, 2018