Former West Ham United player Stuart Pearce has voiced his reservations about midfielder Flynn Downes’ readiness to become a regular starter for the club, relays the TBR. Speaking on TalkSPORT, Pearce discussed West Ham’s transfer activities during the summer window, with much attention focused on potential incomings following Declan Rice’s departure. With David Moyes now having considerable funds at his disposal, replacing the influential Rice in midfield presents a challenging task for the Hammers. While West Ham has been linked with several midfield targets, Pearce suggests that Flynn Downes may not be the immediate solution for the holding midfield role due to his limited starting experience and current standard.
West Ham’s Search for Midfield Reinforcements
Having yet to make a senior signing this summer, West Ham’s transfer strategy is under scrutiny. The sale of Declan Rice has provided the club with financial resources, leading to links with midfield targets such as Joao Palhinha, Conor Gallagher, and James Ward-Prowse. However, Pearce acknowledges that the club may not solely rely on external signings and could potentially pair one of these targets with a current squad member.
Flynn Downes, a £12 million acquisition, had limited chances to prove himself as a starter last season. He was mostly given cameo appearances and started in just seven league matches. Despite fan expectations that he could develop into a regular starter, Pearce remains unconvinced about Downes’ current readiness to meet the standard required at West Ham.
Pearce believes that West Ham will need a holding midfield player to complement Flynn Downes. While acknowledging the expectations surrounding the 24-year-old’s potential, Pearce feels that Downes has not yet shown that he can consistently perform at the required level. The former player suggests that West Ham’s midfield needs may extend to filling a couple of positions and warns against overinvesting in one area if there is a budget constraint.
Moyes’ Appreciation of Downes’ Progression
Despite Pearce’s doubts, West Ham manager David Moyes has been impressed with Flynn Downes’ progression last season. However, Rice’s undeniable influence in the midfield limited Downes’ opportunities to showcase his abilities in league matches. As West Ham continues its transfer business, the question remains whether Downes will be given a chance to step up and replace the England international.
Stuart Pearce’s candid assessment has raised questions about Flynn Downes’ readiness to become a regular starter for West Ham United. As the Hammers search for midfield reinforcements following Declan Rice’s departure, the club’s transfer strategy is under close scrutiny. While Moyes has reportedly been impressed with Downes’ development, the decision to rely on him as a potential replacement for Rice remains uncertain. As the summer transfer window progresses, West Ham’s midfield conundrum will undoubtedly be a pivotal aspect of their squad-building efforts for the upcoming season.