MANUEL PELLEGRINI says he still believes Jack Wilshere is the man to transform West Ham. The England midfielder, 27, is set for a first start since September 1 in tomorrow’s season-ender at Watford. Wilshere has made a couple of cameos off the bench since recovering from the ankle injuries that limited him to just five […]
MANUEL PELLEGRINI says he still believes Jack Wilshere is the man to transform West Ham.
The England midfielder, 27, is set for a first start since September 1 in tomorrow’s season-ender at Watford.
Wilshere has made a couple of cameos off the bench since recovering from the ankle injuries that limited him to just five minutes of action between September and April.
Arsenal let him go last summer and the Hammers knew it was a gamble handing an injury-prone player a three-year deal worth £100,000-a-week.
It certainly hasn’t paid off so far but Pellegrini was confident next term would be a different story.
He said: “I think he is still one of the most talented players in England.
“I hope in the same way we did when we brought him that he can play one season and that will change everything.
“Jack is a different player with a lot of quality. He is working now very well.
“The more time Jack has the more attacking team we can be.”
Samir Nasri is available but the former Manchester City star knows his chances of a long-term deal have disappeared.
The France international hoped to impress after serving an 18-month doping ban but hasn’t featured since mid-March.
Andy Carroll’s Hammers career is also over following two operations on a foot injury that will leave him a free agent by the time he recovers.
No2 goalkeeper Adrian also departs on a free after being limited to just five cup games this term.
The Hammers will finish 10th if they win and can also pip Leicester for ninth spot.
Pellegrini said: “We have had a good season, especially if we compare it to last season with all the different issues and goals conceded, points, everything.
“But that must not be our comparison. It is important to know that we have made improvements but we must try to do better next season.”
