After making his return to the starting lineup in disappointing fashion on Saturday, many may believe Sebastien Haller should be resigned to a place on the West Ham bench again next weekend.
However, after playing just 50 minutes of football this term across five Premier League appearances prior to his first start against Liverpool, it’s little wonder the former Eintracht Frankfurt man struggled to make an impact at Anfield.
The lack of game-time is partly down to his own lack of form as much as Michail Antonio’s astonishing performances in recent times. However, during last weekend’s defeat at the hands of the defending champions, Haller barely impacted proceedings and seemed to tire as the match wore on.
That said, the 26-year-old wasn’t afforded an easy time of things as incoming Reds centre-back Nat Phillips was outstanding on the day and was awarded man of the match for his performance up against the West Ham striker.
With Antonio almost certainly absent for Saturday’s visit of Fulham, fresh off the back of their own first league win, Haller may be given an opportunity to show his worth once more.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Despite Haller’s obvious struggles against Liverpool, the challenge awaiting him on Saturday should provide a slightly easier night on which the Hammers may enjoy far more possession.
The powerful striker was often left isolated attempting to hold up the ball for his teammates at Anfield, something he failed to do all too often.
However, with David Moyes’ side likely to dictate far more of the ball against Fulham and allow further attacking plays to get up alongside Haller, the £45m man hailed as a “fantastic addition” by talkSPORT pundit Tony Cascarino should be given the chance to shine once more.
