Out of contract Australian right-back Lucas Neill could be heading back to West Ham having only recently turned down a contract from Gianfranco Zola’s team. One might be cynical enough to say that this shows more the lack of interest in the former Blackburn player than any real loyalty on his part. His wages would be set to be slashed by over half from the ridiculous figure Alan Curbishley and Eggert Magnussen offered back when Neill originally signed.
The 31 year old is a tall, tough and hard-working full-back who can also play centrally when required. He’s very aware of covering space in defence and so often does a lot of unseen work that’s very useful for his team. Neill’s strong in the air and a tough impressive tackling, though his touch and particularly his crosser aren’t the greatest going forward. He is still pretty quick despite his age and still a good first-team player.
The Hammers have still yet to replace Neill’s right-back spot, with only Jonathan Spector of the current squad a natural in that position. Undoubtedly Neill would walk back into the team ahead of the young American, and could also offer some much needed back up for what looks to be a lack of quality fit centre-backs, past Matthew Upson and possibly young James Tomkins.
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