Credit: Manh Tung - Breaking Media / Imago

Harri Burton

Fri 3 April 2026 22:30, UK

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Josh Ajala should be considered by Nuno Espirito Santo for a West Ham debut in their remaining Premier League fixtures.

With the Hammers currently one point inside the relegation zone, playing Championship football next season is a serious concern this season, with seven “finals” left.

Included in those matches are relegation six-pointers against Wolves and Leeds United, but with only five teams scoring fewer than the Irons this season, Ajala could offer some much-needed attacking prowess.

While all eyes are currently on West Ham’s FA Cup clash with Leeds, there is so much more at stake, and Nuno cannot afford to lack firepower in the Premier League.

Josh Ajala has already earned his West Ham debut

Back in January, with only a few months left on his contract, Ajala was being linked with clubs across Europe, and understandably so, given his pedigree at youth level.

The 19-year-old attacker, who is capable of playing striker, attacking midfielder or even centre-midfielder, has six goals and three assists in 13 Premier League 2 appearances this term.

Those numbers are hardly a surprise given his previous campaign for the Under-21s, also boasting another two goals in the EFL Trophy. What is surprising is that he’s yet to earn his senior debut.

With Crysencio Summerville sidelined, Callum Wilson and Taty Castellanos struggling to hold down the starting striker spot, and Jarrod Bowen off-form, it wouldn’t hurt to see him involved.

Callum Wilson’s future remains uncertain in East London

Despite signing a new one-year extension at the London Stadium, Wilson’s future is not totally secure, with the latest reports suggesting that he could jump ship in the summer.

Coventry City are interested in Wilson, with a return to the Premier League on the cards this season, and several high-profile clubs are likely to keep tabs between now and next term.

Bringing Ajala into the first-team fold makes even more sense, given the rumours surrounding the 34-year-old, but it would certainly be a risk for the under-pressure manager.

Being relegated could have severe consequences for the club, and then the manager may have no choice but to depend on the youth stars. Plan ahead and make sure Ajala is up to speed.