The West Ham Squad: An optimistic look at every Hammer that’s played

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 02: General view outside the stadium as fans arrive ahead of the Premier League match between West Ham United and Newcastle United at London Stadium on November 02, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 02: General view outside the stadium as fans arrive ahead of the Premier League match between West Ham United and Newcastle United at London Stadium on November 02, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images) /
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With an international break filled with negativity, let’s go ahead and look with a glass half full approach to every West Ham United squad member that has taken to the pitch.

First things first, the negativity that is surrounding all things West Ham related is warranted. From the players to the Gaffer and even the Director of Football, everything seems a bit out-of-place. However, there is no time like the present to take an optimistic approach to each member of the squad that has played in the EPL so far this season.

The last line of defense

Fabianski

If it wasn’t clear before about how vital Lukasz Fabianski is to the team, it is now. His contributions from in between the pipes have been life-saving so far this season and his ability to command the backline has been top-notch since signing with West Ham.

Roberto

Remember, this is an optimistic look, not a negative one. Roberto has at times made saves that, to be honest, didn’t look possible. They say that even a broken clock is right twice a day and every fan should be grateful that he has been right on more than a few occasions.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 28: Aaron Cresswell of West Ham United celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and West Ham United at Vitality Stadium on September 28, 2019 in Bournemouth, United Kingdom. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)
BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 28: Aaron Cresswell of West Ham United celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and West Ham United at Vitality Stadium on September 28, 2019 in Bournemouth, United Kingdom. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images) /

Cresswell

This season has been somewhat of a rebound for Aaron Cresswell and his abilities have been welcomed back. There might still be a battle between who is the better left-back but his abilities on a set-piece have been mighty this season.

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Balbuena

Fabian Balbuena might be in the middle of some second season blues, but his ability around the box during a corner kick for the Hammers has been noticed. The more chances to head the ball in, the better.

Zabaleta

The aging Argentinian seems to never want to give up and at least give it a go. Although this is the last season you will see Pablo Zabaleta in Claret and Blue and his legs might be failing, his passion and desire are still very commendable.

Ogbonna

Much like for Cresswell, this season for Angelo Ogbonna has been one of redemption. Oggy has without a doubt been the best center back for the Hammers this season and his ability to stare a defender on has come into play more than once this season.

Diop

Issa Diop, for only being 22, is playing well above his age. He is still obviously learning the game, but he does it well. Diop’s shown everyone at West Ham that he is willing and able to get dirty and get the ball out of harm’s way. A much-needed trait for the EPL.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 27: Issa Diop of West Ham United in action during the Pre-Season Friendly match between West Ham United and Fulham at Craven Cottage on July 27, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 27: Issa Diop of West Ham United in action during the Pre-Season Friendly match between West Ham United and Fulham at Craven Cottage on July 27, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images) /

Fredericks

This guy might’ve been the steal of the decade as he continues to grow into and EPL right back. Ryan Fredericks has the pace challenge anyone and he isn’t afraid to show it. Every match he gets better and better.

Masuaku

King Arthur as some would proclaim has silenced the haters and naysayers so far this season. From being wanted gone to wanted in Arthur Masuaku has shown the Hammers that he can be more than just a flashy side piece.