This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
Nathan Holland was taken out of the West Ham United U23s team to face Fulham last Friday evening, being replaced by Amadou Diallo.
The 16-year-old stepped into the role well, scoring the opening goal of the game as the young Hammers went on to draw 3-3.
That isn’t the big picture in this scenario though, as Holland’s omission from the side has offered an indication that the 21-year-old could be set for a first-team appearance against Arsenal on Monday.
That is something that has been backed up by Football Insider, who reported that Manuel Pellegrini opted to keep Holland out of that match, so he could train with the team ahead of the clash against West Ham’s fellow Londoners.
FFC has already offered the opinion that there were numerous signs that the winger could be about to come in for more first-team opportunities after he made his Premier League debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
This also coincides with the hopes of many West Ham fans, as there have been calls for the 21-year-old to get more time with the senior squad.
It seems as though those chances to impress the manager will be coming thick and fast, as it is unlikely Pellegrini would take Holland out of the U23s game if he had no interest in playing him on Monday night.
Did he really play for us?! No West Ham fan has managed to name all of these obscure Irons signings….
If the 21-year-old is to get another chance against Arsenal, it will be one that is thoroughly deserved, as he has been highly impressive for the U23s.
That is signified by the fact that he has now been nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Month twice in a row.
He then followed that up with a bold performance against Wolves, displayed by how he attempted two dribbles in his 19 minutes on the pitch, completing both.
All of the above points towards Holland getting on the pitch against Arsenal, something that can be seen as an exciting prospect for the club.
In other news, Pellegrini should be trusting his young players to navigate their way past Gillingham in the FA Cup.
