Former Premier League goalkeeper David James has claimed West Ham are at the start of something exciting under David Moyes.
This comes after a flurry of activity at the London Stadium on deadline day saw the Hammers sign Alex Kral and Nikola Vlasic – two 23-year-old talents.
Albeit the latter endured a difficult spell at Everon previously, both have the potential to have an impact on the Irons this season and beyond.
Speaking on Sky Sports, James suggested that the East London club were already planning for what’s to come under their Scottish manager.
He’s [Vlasic] just 23-years-old, and you would think West Ham are building towards the future with that one. I think David Moyes has got his West Ham side playing the same way they ended last season. Not literally game by game but finishing in Europe. He’s got the chance to use that as a springboard, and you have to replenish the squad and use that to his success. He is a goalscorer as well and can add a different threat going forward. Vlasic on a five-year deal has filled the gap left [by Lingard].
Last season, Vlasic scored 11 times and registered five assists in 26 Russian Premier Liga outings from an attacking midfield role.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Comparing Vlasic with Jesse Lingard and suggesting the Irons turned to the £27million valued Croatian as an alternative is an interesting viewpoint.
Given the positional similarities, it would seem Moyes has sought another option – one five years younger and therefore with greater room for growth.
On the face of matters, it would certainly seem as if West Ham missing out on the Englishman could have been a blessing in disguise.
