The loan signing of Evan Ferguson from Brighton has turned out to be a masterclass in how not to handle a talented young striker. Graham Potter’s West Ham have struggled to get the best out of Ferguson, and it’s clear that the manager’s tactics are to blame.
A £100m Talent Wasting Away
Ferguson was once touted as a £100m player, but his time at West Ham has been a disappointment. He’s made just one start and played a mere 142 minutes in three months. It’s a shocking state of affairs, and one that has left many questioning Potter’s judgment.
Michael Dawson Slams Potter’s ‘Strange’ Treatment
Sky Sports pundit Michael Dawson has been scathing in his assessment of Potter’s handling of Ferguson. “I found something strange,” Dawson said after West Ham’s 1-1 draw with Southampton. “(Niclas) Fullkrug has come off, surely it’s going to be a straight swap (for Ferguson). No, Tomas Soucek comes in. That says it all for Evan Ferguson, really disappointing for the young man not to get the opportunity.“
A Disaster for All Parties
The loan move has been a disaster for Ferguson, West Ham, and Brighton. Ferguson has played less football than he would have at the Seagulls, and Brighton won’t be doing business with the Hammers again anytime soon. West Ham’s owners are also unhappy with how Ferguson’s loan has panned out, and have poured cold water on any chance of making it permanent.
The Verdict
Potter’s tactics have been questioned, and it’s clear that he needs to rethink his approach if he wants to get the best out of Ferguson. The striker has potential, but it’s being wasted by Potter’s poor management. As Dawson noted, “It’s hard to see how things can get much worse.” West Ham fans will be hoping that Potter can turn things around, but it’s clear that something needs to change.
Ferguson’s Future Uncertain
Ferguson’s future at West Ham is uncertain, and it’s likely that he’ll return to Brighton at the end of the season. The Seagulls will be looking to reassess their options and find a way to get the best out of their talented young striker. As one pundit noted, “Ferguson needs to be given a chance to shine, and it’s clear that West Ham isn’t the place for him.”
Conclusion
The loan signing of Evan Ferguson has been a disaster for all parties involved. Potter’s tactics have been questioned, and it’s clear that he needs to rethink his approach if he wants to get the best out of Ferguson. West Ham fans will be hoping that Potter can turn things around, but it’s hard to see how things can get much worse.
In the words of Dawson, “Potter needs to take a long, hard look at his tactics and figure out how to get the best out of Ferguson.” Until then, Ferguson will continue to languish on the sidelines, a talented young striker wasted by poor management.
