£60k/pw West Ham ace’s display vs Man U was so good it could earn him a new contract

West Ham United achieved a notable victory against Manchester United at the London Stadium, and within that match, one player emerged as a standout performer who deserves significant recognition. The second half saw a marked improvement from several West Ham players, who seemed to remember the pride and responsibility that comes with playing for such a storied club. The first half had been far from satisfactory, filled with errors and missed opportunities, but the team managed to regroup and turn the tide after halftime.

One player who had been under pressure to perform this season was Crysencio Summerville. Over the summer, Tim Steidten challenged him to make a significant impact at West Ham, and during this match, he demonstrated his potential and skill, delivering an impressive performance that showcased his ability. However, while Summerville’s contributions were noteworthy, it was the performance of another teammate that truly caught my attention and perhaps even reshaped the outlook of his career at the club.

Julen Lopetegui, the manager of West Ham, deserves credit for making the bold decision to start this particular player in the match. Lukasz Fabianski was given the nod over Alphonse Areola as the starting goalkeeper, a choice that I fully endorse. Areola has struggled in recent matches, showing inconsistencies that have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. In contrast, Fabianski, a seasoned veteran, stepped up to the challenge and proved his worth on the field.

Last season, Fabianski made it clear that he was ready to fight tooth and nail for the number one goalkeeping position at West Ham, and he certainly made a strong case for himself during this match. Earning a reported £60,000 per week, the 39-year-old goalkeeper displayed exceptional skill and experience against Manchester United. His performance was so impressive that it could very well lead to discussions about a contract extension.

Throughout the match, Fabianski maintained a high level of play. Aside from a tense moment when he rushed off his line and nearly conceded, only to be saved by an errant shot from Diogo Dalot, he was solid in goal. He made four crucial saves, achieving an impressive save percentage of 80%. Additionally, he completed eight of the fourteen long balls he attempted, showcasing his ability to contribute to both defense and build-up play.

What stood out most about Fabianski’s performance was the sense of stability he brought to the back line. Watching him in goal gave me a level of comfort that I have not felt when Areola has been on the pitch this season. His experience and leadership were evident, and he communicated effectively with his defenders, helping to organize the team when they were under pressure.

Given his exceptional showing against Manchester United, it seems unlikely that Areola will regain his starting position anytime soon. Fabianski’s impressive display has certainly put him back in the spotlight as the preferred choice for Lopetegui. With his contract set to expire in the summer of 2025, the club may soon consider offering him a new deal based on this performance.

In summary, the match against Manchester United was pivotal not only for West Ham’s standing in the league but also for the players’ futures at the club. Fabianski’s standout performance was a crucial factor in the victory, and it has likely reshaped the dynamics of the goalkeeping situation at West Ham. As the team continues to strive for success this season, players like Fabianski are essential in guiding the squad toward their goals. His experience, skill, and commitment to the club were on full display, and it’s clear that he still has much to offer as West Ham moves forward.