The West Ham United player could still have a bright 2017 if he plays to his full potential.
It is fair to say that West Ham United’s summer signing Sofiane Feghouli has failed to live up to his reputation thus far.
Signed on a free transfer after his contract at Valencia came to an end, the Algeria international was tipped to take the London Stadium by storm. However as we head into the new year the 27-year-old is struggling to make any significant impact at the Hammers.
His lack of minutes – due in part to injury at the start of the campaign – has seen him omitted from his country’s squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, and while that is hugely disappointing for the player it could be the catalyst he needs to kick-start his West Ham career.
After all, Feghouli will know he does not have many more chances to play at the tournament and he is at a point in his career where he will be desperate to play domestic football week in, week out.
The decision ultimately rests with West Ham manager Slaven Bilic, but if Feghouli starts making the most of his cameo performances from the bench, as he did with an assist in the 4-1 victory against Swansea City last month, he could still turn things round.
Similarly Feghouli will need to show his all in training. After all, if the disappointment of being overlooked by his country for a major tournament does not get the fires burning, nothing will.
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