Manuel Pellegrini confirms he’s told Javier Hernandez he’s key at West Ham United

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West Ham United striker Javier Hernandez had been linked with a move away from the London Stadium.

Manuel Pellegrini has told the Daily Star that Javier Hernandez is a key part of his plans at West Ham United this season.

ESPN reported how Hernandez was potential set to leave the London Stadium after the World Cup, with MLS sides interested in signing him.

However, Pellegrini is keen to keep the Mexican at the London Stadium,

And his latest comments to the Daily Star seem to suggest that Hernandez will not be going anywhere.

He said:“I spoke with Javier before he played at the World Cup.

“When I signed here, I told him that he would be a very important player here with me.”

Hernandez was underused last season at West Ham, with David Moyes regularly overlooking him.

Marko Arnautovic was generally used as a lone striker for the Hammers, with Hernandez having to settle for a place on the bench.

The striker still managed to score eight league goals for West Ham, but was keen to play more regularly.

Where Hernandez fits into Pellegrini’s system remains to be seen, as Arnautovic has been in fine form over pre-season, and looks an almost certain starter up-front.