Chicarito Needs to Improve His Goal Return This Season

Javier Hernandez was brought into the club last summer and was branded a 'clinical finisher' by the media.

The former Manchester United favourite is a popular figure in the Premier League and West Ham fans had high hopes for the 30-year-old but he failed to hit double figures during his first season in the capital. His movement caused plenty of problems for the opposition last year, but the striker must improve his goalscoring record in order to keep his place in the side.

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After a couple of disappointing seasons in the top flight, West Ham fans are now feeling optimistic of their side's chances and their recent spending spree has seen the squad significantly bolstered this summer. Hernandez now faces stiff competition from new signing Lucas Perez who joined from Arsenal at the beginning of August.

The 29-year-old signs a three-year contract at the London Stadium and will be determined to make up for lost time after seeing his promising career stall at the Emirates. He was prolific in his native Spain and could be given the nod ahead of Chicarito if he's able to make a fast start.

The Mexican netted at the 2018 World Cup during his country's match against South Korea but was only able to fire in eight goals last term, which was a hugely disappointing return for a man who bagged 26 for Bayer Leverkusen during the 2015-16 campaign.

Despite an underwhelming spell, he is feeling confident of his side's chances this season and believes that the Hammers can gatecrash the top four. He told reporters that he always aims high although the majority of West Ham fans would surely settle for a top-half finish during Manuel Pellegrini's first season in charge.

The Hammers are around 11/10 to achieve that goal and those who are looking to bet on any of the Premier League outright markets can choose from the free bets available, which include £100 of free bet credits and a £20 risk-free wager.

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Hernandez will relish the chance to link up with a number of new recruits this season. Jack Wilshire will undoubtedly create chances for the Mexican, whilst both Felipe Anderson and Andriy Yarmolenko should provide plenty of ammunition from the wide areas. Marauding full-back Ryan Fredericks looks like another canny addition and Chicarito is unlikely to be starved of service in this new-look West Ham side.

The 30-year-old admitted that he asked to leave the club in January but he's been reassured by Pellegrini that he remains an important part of the squad this season. He admitted that his chat with the former Manchester City boss "gave him a lot of confidence" and he is looking forward to working under the Chilean coach.

It appears to be good man-management from the 64-year-old who will hope that his faith in Hernandez is repaid this campaign. Eight goals was a poor return for a player who is often touted as a natural poacher but a better season is expected this time around and he could be an integral part of a potentially upwardly-mobile Premier League side.

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