West Ham United’s first-team may have disappointed once again, throwing away a 3-1 lead to draw against Brighton & Hove Albion, but the U23s have provided more reason for optimism.
Xande Silva was on the young Hammers’ bench, coming off it to score in an impressive turnaround, that saw them beat Sunderland 4-2.
The fact that the 22-year-old was able to get himself on the scoresheet was a source of pride and excitement for many Hammers fans.
The Portuguese forward suffered from a bowel obstruction during the summer, which saw him hospitalised.
It has been a long process for him to get ready for action, with this being his first competitive game back for the U23s.
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Therefore fans were over the moon to see him mark the occasion with a goal that helped secure a win for the youngsters.
This has also led to the suggestion that David Moyes should reinstate him into the first-team setup now that he is back.
One fan said he “scores for fun in the U23s”, which is backed up by last season’s numbers, when he scored seven goals in eight Premier League 2 games, adding an assist.
The 22-year-old has made two first-team appearances to date, and if Hammers fans get their wish, he will be adding to that soon.
Meanwhile, Roshane Thomas absolutely slated one West Ham player after the Brighton draw.
