Three reasons why West Ham should sign electric Bournemouth 25-year-old in January
COMMENT By Will Butcher
West Ham should solve their right-back woes with a January move to sign Bournemouth ace Adam Smith.
The 25-year-old ace has arguably been Bournemouth’s best player of the season so far, as he continues to offer an attacking outlet from right-back for Eddie Howe’s side.
As Smith continues to sparkle in Bournemouth’s superb start to the Premier League season, here are three reasons why the Hammers should look to sign in-form Smith.
Right-back options
With Sam Byram still recovering from a long-term hamstring injury and Alvaro Arbeloa entering the latter stages of his career, Slaven Bilic has been forced to try other alternatives.
Attacker Michail Antonio has been tried at right-back, but is wasted in defence. A three-man back line also struggled to keep out their top-flight opposition.
In signing Smith, West Ham would be adding a boost to both attack and defence. Five clean sheets in his 15 appearances, as well as a goal and three assists proves he can offer quality in both areas.
London
Smith is likely to favour a move to the east London, after being brought up in Leytonstone which is just a short 20-minute drive from the London Stadium.
The right-back was a product of the Tottenham youth academy where he made just two appearances. Smith spent time on loan at the likes of Leeds, Millwall and Derby before moving to the Vitality Stadium.
A move back to his hometown would favour Smith, and West Ham are able to provide that.
Proven English quality
The England Under-21’s international is a reminder to fans that English players can develop and prosper despite the amount of foreign imports coming to the Premier League.
The Hammers looked to exploit the overseas market in the summer, with the likes of Gokhan Tore, Simone Zaza and Sofiane Feghouli all signing on the dotted line this summer.
With all three failing to adapt to the rigours of English football, bringing in proven English stars could benefit the Hammers as they look to avoid a relegation scrap.
In other West Ham transfer news, this players was in Bilic’s office on Monday for crunch talks.