Tim Steidten recently appeared on an interview for German free to air television Channel Sport 1 . Being ever the professional, West Ham’s Technical Director avoided controversy or headline-making.
During the programme he was asked how the opportunity came about to join West Ham and he stated that he was headhunted for the position, from one of the big consultancy firms based in London. He wanted a move to the Premier League as budgets were bigger and he wanted to replicate what he did in Germany.
During the summer transfer window, Steidten said the club spent a lot, yet had to find a combination of ages, experience and personalities that would fit into the wage structure. His favourite type of player is young and fast yet he recognises that the squad needed a good mix. He remarked that it is incredibly difficult for young players to get minutes in the Premier League. The intensity in the league is incredible.
In relation to fans’ expectations, he was acutely aware that they may be a bit agitated in the early part of the season but is confident the players will come good. He compared our start to that of Borussia Dortmund who have started off slow and are now seventh in the Bundesliga – where expectations are higher.
In summary, it is clear that Fullkrug was his suggestion, and given the praise he has heaped on the player I’m hopeful that once he has recovered from injury and integrated into the squad, West Ham will have one hell of a player on their hands.
Steidten covered more about his time in Germany and suggested he would like to return at some point, yet for now he has a job to do at West Ham. He clearly has been backed financially – so let’s hope that the team pushes on after the international break using the 4-1 win over Ipswich Town as a springboard to better performances.