Lucy’s Last Word: New season, same old feeling? Why West Ham’s squad is ‘alarming’ on paper

I didn’t want to start off a new season feeling the effects of the doom and gloom hangover from last season, no one did. It seems like we spend every August complaining about the lack of new signings – or at least, impactful ones – and we wanted this one to be different. I said ‘wanted’, not ‘expected’. But on paper, as it stands, it looks alarming.

The Striker Conundrum: Too Much Pressure on Bowen

Essentially, we’re relying on Jarrod Bowen to have the season of his life, because what currently backs him up isn’t enough of a threat to any Premier League defence. I hope Callum Wilson turns out to be a surprise package, I like him. But with Antonio’s future uncertain, and Fullkrug having made a disappointing first impression, we’re left with few consistent options.

Goalkeeping and Paqueta’s Potential

At the other end of the field, we had hoped to sign a reliable Fabianski replacement, but that hasn’t happened. Areola has had a rocky pre-season – not ideal preparation for the responsibility that will rest upon his shoulders this season. It would be nice to see Paqueta get back to form. If he shows what we know he can do, he can be a driving force for the squad. The thought of Paqueta showing off what he’s made of is tantalising. If he sticks around, he could be a game-changer.

Defining Progress and Trophy Ambitions

Each season, we should always look to progress. Based on last season, anything but relegation is progress. We should be finishing in the top half of the table, but we’d forgive an 11th or 12th if we looked sharp. Too much to ask for a half decent cup-run? Yes, probably. This time around I don’t think we’d take a trophy at the expense of a good season in the league, would we?

Faith in Graham Potter

I really want to trust Potter and believe that he can make the best of what he has. He’s what we call a good “man-manager”, so if he can bring the team together for a full season and get them believing in themselves, then maybe they can thrive and play to their strengths under his organisation. Yes, football is about passion and supporting your team, no matter what. But it’s also about enjoyment, escapism and pride – we need a bit of that this season, something to make us walk with a spring in our step and an appreciation for football again.