Crysencio Summerville, the former Leeds United standout, has yet to earn a Premier League start with West Ham United. All his league appearances so far have come as a substitute, prompting calls for a change.
The Hammers invested £25 million in Summerville this summer following his impressive 2023-24 Championship season, where he made 49 appearances and recorded 21 goals and 10 assists. Unfortunately, Leeds fell short of promotion, losing the Championship Play-off Final to Southampton, leading to several departures, including the Dutch winger.
According to The Athletic, it’s time to give Summerville more responsibility. West Ham currently sits 14th in the Premier League, with one win, one draw, and two losses from their first four matches. Journalist Roshane Thomas emphasizes that for Julen Lopetegui’s squad to rise in the standings, Summerville should be unleashed.
“Summerville, who joined from Leeds United for £25 million ($32 million), came on at halftime against Fulham,” Thomas noted. “He has shown flashes of his talent in brief appearances against Aston Villa and Manchester City, and nearly scored in his first full start during the Carabao Cup against Bournemouth.”
Operating mainly on the left wing, Summerville has made a case for a starting role in league matches. With Michail Antonio struggling to secure his spot as the primary striker, Summerville could be crucial for revitalizing West Ham’s attack, potentially partnering with Kudus on the flanks and positioning Paqueta as a No. 10 behind Bowen.
While Lopetegui might be cautious in integrating Summerville into his system, it’s essential to assess whether he can manage a full Premier League match and become a reliable option as the team seeks to overcome its early-season challenges. It remains to be seen if Summerville can prove he’s ready for the demands of the Premier League.
