Flynn Downes loan exit at West Ham United mooted as Fabrizio Romano says ‘here we go’

We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…

Frank McAvennie believes there are “decent” young players at West Ham, but that the high stakes involved in football means they get very few chances.

The analyst has advised West Ham manager David Moyes to give such players more opportunities next season because the supporters will appreciate it.

Moyes gave minutes to young players such as Divin Mubama, Levi Laing, Freddie Potts, and Oliver Scarles last season.

The East London club appears to be a few players short of having a quality roster capable of contending in all competitions next season, but they appear to be addressing that issue through the transfer market rather than promoting from within.

The Hammers have yet to acquire a single player this summer, but an agreement has been reached with Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Speaking to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “There is so much money in the game now, people are scared to give young players a chance. You won’t know if they are any good until you put them in.

“They’ve played Flynn Downes a few times, and I like him, but I don’t think he’s ready. I would put him out on loan, and he would then be a good player for the midfield for next year.

“They brought him in, but they don’t seem to do it with strikers. If they are scoring goals for the Under-21s or other youth sides, give them a chance. The fans would love it, because they love seeing people coming through the ranks.

“There are some decent players there, but at the moment you don’t need players for the future, you need them for now.”