Thomas Hitzlsperger to return for West Ham soon but will he make a difference
The West Ham midfielder Thomas Hitlsperger has not had the best of times since arriving from Italian Serie A club Lazio during last summer. Not only has he had to endure an injury that has kept him out of action for months but his only experience at West Ham has come during the 2010 pre-season.
With West Ham perilously close to relegation back to the championship, the Hammers manager, Avram Grant will have been cursing his luck since the midfielder arrived at the club only to be immediately added to the “under treatment” list.
Whilst it has been repeated that West Ham have been playing well on most occasions, their points tally of 24 from 26 games suggests otherwise, although in their defence other teams have fared no better and the difference between West Ham in 20th and Fulham in 12th is only what could be described as a manageable six points.
But will Hitzlsperger make a difference to the Upton Park sides chances of survival at such a late stage? One could argue that West Ham already have an experienced midfield with the likes of Scott Parker calling the shots but then how much longer can his legs carry the team in what has not only been an energy sapping Premiership campaign, but also a long and ultimately disappointing run in the Carling Cup, the Hammers are also through to the fifth round of the FA Cup meaning another fixture for the former Chelsea midfielder.
With Hitzlsperger to make his comeback during a reserve game against West Bromwich Albion on the Wednesday, fans will hope that his recovery not only creates a change in fortune in the league, but that Scott Parker can be rested for certain fixtures allowing him to be available for what are some very tough football matches to come.
Should Hitzlsperger not have the desired affect during the business end of the season, then West Ham fans could very well be saying goodbye to a player who’s only effect will have been keeping the treatment table warm.
