The West Ham United forward will spend the rest of the season playing in League One.
West Ham United have sent young striker Toni Martinez on loan to League One side Oxford United for the rest of the season, and it remains to be seen whether it is a mistake or a masterstroke.
Given the Spaniard’s outstanding scoring form for the Hammers’ under-23 side this season – 12 goals in 11 matches – it would have been no surprise to see the 19-year-old called into the senior team.
After all, until recently West Ham have struggled for goals and creative spark and having a player like Martinez on the bench would have been another exciting option for manager Slaven Bilic.
Instead, the Croatian has opted to send Martinez out on loan as he continues his development, and if he scores for Oxford as he has for West Ham’s second string, it could be a sensational move for all concerned.
Oxford would benefit from an in-form striker, the player would get his fix of first-team football and West Ham could see what the teenager can do week in, week out before potentially promoting him next season.
It would have been great to see if Martinez could step up now, but at least this decision allows him to benefit from senior action, potentially acting as the catalyst for a long and successful career at the London Stadium.
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