.As the deadline day approached without any new arrivals, West Ham managed to bring in just one player during the January transfer window—Kalvin Phillips on loan.
The Hammers combination of Pablo Fornals and Said Benrahma failed to finalize their agreed-upon transfers to Real Betis and Lyon, respectively, causing late drama.
It is unclear what will actually happen with the Algerian and the Spaniard, and David Moyes has a serious problem with strength in depth, particularly in the attacking department.
But even if the French and Spanish teams are unable to complete such transfers due to appeals, and they continue to play in the London Stadium, they will undoubtedly lack the motivation to contribute positively to our team for the ensuing four months.
But Moyes also has another option, one that has been largely overlooked for the last three months.
After deadline day disaster, West Ham may have internal solution
Since November 4th, Michail Antonio has not started a game for the Hammers, and since November 12th, he has not made any appearances for us.
Yes, the 33-year-old has only scored two goals in the Premier League this season, and when he has played, he has been dreadful for us (Transfermarkt).
But we all know he’s no stranger to playing out on the wing and wreaking havoc, so we really need him back to full fitness and blazing on all cylinders now. Alternatively, he may just resume his center-forward position, freeing up Jarrod Bowen to move back out to the right side.
Throughout the rest of the season, Antonio has the potential to significantly impact our team, and I know I may be clinging to hope for the best!
The Jamaican international, at the very least, will provide us with another body throughout the highly demanding last four months of the season.
There’s no denying that West Ham’s transfer deadline day was a complete and utter failure. But, things might not be as dire for our expectations for the rest of the season if we can get Antonio back among the goals and he is completely healthy, motivated, and eager.