In exactly a years time, West Ham will be releasing five current first-team players upon the expiry of their current contracts – Adrian, Kevin Nolan, Joey O’Brien, Modibo Maiga and James Collins.
In the style of ‘Deal Or No Deal’ we assess whether these players should be handed contract extensions.
Adrian, Goalkeeper:
The Spanish shot-stopper has made the position his own since usurping veteran Jussi Jaaskelainen almost 18 months ago. Adrian has managed to be taken in by the fans as one of their own, and is a real favourite within the Hammers community for his boyish good looks and maverick personality. Athletic and agile, Adrian has made a real habit out of bailing out his defence with a number of clutch saves over the course of last season, including several from the penalty spot. He could go on to be a real cult hero, if he isn’t already following that winning penalty he scored against Everton in the FA Cup.
Verdict: Deal!
Kevin Nolan, Midfielder:
Club captain, helped spark the club’s revival and return to the Premier League with some important goals four seasons ago, but hasn’t done much since. With Allardyce now gone, it’s hard to see the journeyed Nolan have a future in the team. He’s simply just lost a step. We should be looking at the next generation. Thanks for everything, Kevin, but it’s time to go.
Verdict: No Deal!
Joey O’Brien, Defender:
Mr Versatile, O’Brien has come in for us in tricky situations and helped steady the ships over the last four seasons, along with Kevin Nolan. Another ex-Bolton boy and Allardyce believer, he Irishman has been relegated to backup fullback following the arrivals of Carl Jenkinson and Aaron Cresswell. O’Brien will feature in the Europa League tomorrow night, but it’s hard to see him get many more games this coming season should we seal our primary targets. Time to get some fresh legs.
Verdict: No Deal!
Modibo Maiga, Forward:
It just hasn’t worked for Maiga since his arrival from FC Sochaux three years ago. The Malian has found the net hard to come by, and has been forced out on loan the last 18 months as he continued to squander first-team opportunities handed to him. David Gold says he’ll be given one more chance this season to prove his worth, and having a one-year option in his contract, we could be subjected to another year of him, but I suspect this will be his last in East London, providing we cant find a taker this summer. You’ll always be remembered for that winner in the Capital One Cup at White Hart Lane, and for that, we thank you.
Verdict: No Deal!
James Collins, Defender:
Our solid third choice option at the heart of the defence, Collins has always stepped in when called upon and been a reliable option for us. Ginge is a proper fan favourite at the club, but with Tomkins and Reid cemented in as the starting pairing in the back four, Collins may look to move away if he’s not content with a backup role going into his twilight years. Dependable, faithful and an all round great guy, keep Collins if you can’t find a younger, cheaper option.
Verdict: Deal!
