OPINION
After watching Andy Carroll plod his way around the pitch for 70 minutes on Saturday, it is clear to see that he simply does not have what it takes to be part of this new and improved West Ham side this season.
He might have found a way to score – netting in added time against Birmingham City – but his overall performance left much to be desired and with a contract that runs out at the end of the season, there is surely no way he is going to earn a new deal.
The only issue with him leaving is that he leaves a giant – 6’3″ (source: Transfermarkt) to be exact – void on the fringes the first team, the other attackers at the London Stadium not offering the same qualities that the target man brings to the squad.
Yes, Marko Arnautovic is a powerful and physically imposing forward but is there any guarantee he will remain in east London in the summer? Not with the way he is playing.
West Ham need not only to replace Carroll but to bring in an upgrade who can take the club forward and there are few options who fit the bill as well Salomon Rondon.
The Venezuelan – on £60,000-a-week (Source: Spotrac) – has shone at Newcastle United this season while on loan from West Brom and he possesses the same attributes as Carroll, while offering plenty more up top.
Not only is the 71-cap star much less of an injury risk than the Englishman, he has a much wider range of skills, not least his impeccable work rate, which make him a top class talent who could thrive off the sort of service the Hammers can provide.
He would be a major upgrade on what Carroll offers and would not only support but rival Arnautovic for that first team spot and the chance to become a favourite of the Hammers faithful.