Several West Ham players left the London Stadium on loan last window. Nayef Aguerd, James Ward-Prowse and Maxwel Cornet are all on short term season-long loans and were moved out to free up squad places. One of those beneficiaries was PSG’s Carlos Soler who was able to join on deadline day.
Initially thought to be a loan with option to buy, West Ham fans found out well after the window had closed that Soler’s deal was a loan-only. What I find interesting is that he doesn’t talk like a player on-loan.
I must admit to having been a bit underwhelmed with Soler from his early performances: Played mostly on the left by Lopetegui he only showed his true worth when switched to partner Paquetá in the central midfield, where I hope his future lies.
His first major interview since the Newcastle match, with mirror.co.uk reveals a player who seems ‘more than’ just a loanee. He spoke with real passion for the club, after the Newcastle victory:” I love these sort of matches. The field was perfect, the grass was incredible and I love this kind of game because I can show what I am. The atmosphere was incredible. Our fans were amazing. For me, when I was on the field at Newcastle, I could hear the fans and they were having fun. They deserve this kind of match and performance we showed on Monday.”
As I said, for a loan player he has such affection for the Hammers’ supporters: “We have to show this more for them because when we play this kind of football, this kind of passion on the pitch, they love it and at home or away, they always support us and create such a good atmosphere. They are with us every time. They make such an incredible effort to go to Newcastle, to go to every game and that victory is for them too.”
He has huge ambition to get back to wining ways and to keep West Ham performances at the higher level exhibited on Monday night:“Newcastle was a big step for us. We have to make it again against Arsenal, against Leicester, Wolves, we have a lot of good matches and I think we are going to do it.”
From earlier reports and rumours now flying around, Carlos Soler may just be more than just a short term loan signing. All of his words point to that and his desire for success at West Ham seems to indicate it. Lots of water to pass under the bridge this season but if the results come and Soler’s performances stay at that elevated level, anything is possible.
