4 Areas West Ham United can improve for next season

West Ham United released a statement after a 'constructive' meeting with Sam Allardyce in which the manager received assurances of his job security, however, in return the board has outlined certain expectations ahead of next season. 

Improvements to the playing and backroom staff are needed to ensure the team provides more entertainment on the pitch, as well as a top ten finish.

Here are 4 areas West Ham need to strengthen. Food for thought Big Sam.

 

Striker to support Andy Carroll

Since a four game win streak in February, West Ham almost grinded to a halt in the Premier League, finishing the 2013-14 campaign with eight defeats from thirteen games. This despite Andy Carroll's return to fitness. Its evident that a partner to lighten the load on Carroll in front of goal is a necessity. Carroll has good on-field chemistry with Kevin Nolan, however more firepower is needed over the course of a 38 game season. Goals win games.

More of a midfield presence

Creativity and a conveyor belt of chances is required from midfield, another area where the Hammers have been left wanting. Both Matt Jarvis and Stewart Downing are capable wide men who can pick a pass. However they lack consistency in attack, raw pace to beat their man, and a clinical edge in front of goal. West Ham as a team need to be more industrious in how and where there goals come from.

The board has insisted they will "support him (Allardyce) with the resources that he needs"

A creative midfielder/playmaker type or winger to unlock the door up front should be on the summer shopping list with the aforementioned frontman.

Attacking Coach

The board have agreed to an overhaul of the scouting system and the need for an 'attacking' coach. A perfect candidate may be Les Ferdinand, his role at Tottenham has been of a similar mould. After the departure of Tim Sherwood, Sir Les might deemed surplus to requirements by the incoming new manager, whoever that may be. If the team is to achieve a top ten finish, proficiency in the final third is as important as being solid at the back.

Change in philosophy?

Sam Allardyce has a certain style of play that is tried and tested in the Premier League, with Sam at the helm, survival in the top tier of English football is almost a given. But to reach the next level, a change in philosophy may not be a bad thing. By no means does the manager need to completely tear up the rulebook. Just tweak things accordingly to take that next step the clubs board and its fans no doubt want.