West Ham’s U23s have started their Premier League 2 Division 2 season in great form with Nathan Holland having a breakout season. The youngster, who can play as a winger and midfielder has made an impressive start this season, scoring 12 goals and assisting eight times this season.
Holland, who joined The Hammers in 2017 from Everton, has had an injury-plagued time since his move, but he’s seemed to put his injury problems behind him, appearing 18 times this season in all competitions.
Holland has already had his best goal contributions this season in young career. The Englishman, who’s been capped for the national team at U16, U17, U18 and U19 level has scored more goals this season than his previous three seasons combined. He’s also registered as many assists as the whole of last season, which is a career high.
Loan Move
Oxford United have taken notice of the youngster, as the League One club have signed Holland on loan until the end of the season, following West Ham’s 2-0 win over Manchester United in their recent PL2 Division 2 fixture.
Holland commented on the move, telling the club’s official site “I look forward to challenging myself in men’s football week-in, week-out. I feel fit and strong, and I’m raring to go there, give it my all and see where it takes me.” Oxford United manager, Karl Robinson has already given Holland his debut in a 3-1 home defeat to Rotherham United.
How Would Holland Fit In The West Ham First Team?
When Holland returns to West Ham, he could follow in the footsteps of club captain, Mark Noble and more recently, Declan Rice who have both become first team regulars after being promoted from the youth team.
His versatility could prove useful for David Moyes’ struggling side as he can deputise on the wing or in midfield.
The Hammers’ midfield has looked bleak this season with Declan Rice and Mark Noble being ever-present, leaving a void for a backup, with the injury-prone Jack Wilshere and Carlos Sanchez being surplus to requirements.
First Team Opportunities This Season
Holland made his first start for the senior team, in a league cup game against Oxford United. His flair and passing ability constantly made him a threat throughout the first half, before former West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini cut his debut short just before the hour mark.
Holland made his Premier League debut as a late substitute in a 2-0 defeat at Wolves. Whilst the 21-year-old didn’t make an impact on the game, he showed glimpses of quality whilst on the ball.
In the Hammers’ following game at home to Arsenal, Holland made his home debut, in the closing stages of the game. His contribution to the game was a shot which was comfortably saved by Arsenal goalkeeper, Bernd Leno.
Comments on Holland
Holland has commented on his recent spell in the first team. “This season has been a massive step forward on and off the pitch. I’ve just kept working hard and I’m seeing the rewards.” He continued, “I’d like to be involved again. I’ll just let this go past me and obviously enjoy it, but then I’ll just get back to work and keep working hard and see where that takes me.”
Dmitri Halajko has commented on Holland’s performances earlier this season, labelling him as “the best winger in the league”. Halajko continued, “he’s won games for us on his own this season. Every time he gets the ball, he’s a threat.”
