Evan Ferguson’s arrival at West Ham was initially greeted with optimism, but the move has failed to deliver the anticipated impact.
With six matches remaining, the Hammers find themselves with little left to fight for, underlining what has been a frustrating and underwhelming season.
There was hope that Graham Potter, who replaced Julen Lopetegui, would inject new life into the squad. However, the campaign has instead been defined by missed opportunities and a glaring lack of cutting edge in the final third — an area where Ferguson was expected to contribute but hasn’t.
The young striker has struggled to make his mark since arriving, and a summer return to Brighton now appears almost certain.
That potential exit would once again leave West Ham short of striking options, though growing links to Canadian forward Jonathan David may offer some encouragement.
David is expected to leave Lille on a free transfer at season’s end, and West Ham are reportedly leading the race to sign him, ahead of Chelsea and several other European clubs.
A forward of David’s profile — youthful, pacey, and clinical — is exactly what the Hammers have been missing. Should the club manage to secure his services, Ferguson’s future in east London will likely be over.
Despite the squad showing signs of promise, key players have underperformed, and the lack of quality has been evident in too many close matches.
With European ambitions still in the background, Potter and West Ham can’t afford any missteps in the upcoming transfer window. Recruitment will be crucial — and getting it right is no longer optional.
