As Husillos watches Koutris, it’s clear Pellegrini doesn’t trust Cresswell or Masuaku

Add as preferred source on Google

West Ham United’s reported targeting of Leonardo Koutris signals that Manuel Pellegrini doesn’t trust either of Aaron Cresswell or Arthur Masuaku.

The left back position has been something of a problem position for the Hammers this season.

Pellegrini has largely used Masuaku, with the DR Congo international making eight Premier League starts.

The 25-year-old has had a poor campaign though, and has put in some shaky displays for the Irons.

The feeling is that Masuaku abandons defensive responsibility and attacks too much, thus leaving the team under threat down the left.

Pellegrini has also used Cresswell, but appears not to favour the Englishman as much.

Neither have convinced, and with sporting director Mario Husillos having been on a scouting mission to watch Leonardo Koutris for Greece over the international break, there’s a chance one could be sold in January.

End of the line for one of the duo?

As reported by The Telegraph, Husillos went to observe Koutris for Greece in their UEFA Nations League match against Finland last week.

Koutris, who plays his football for Olympiakos, has seemingly been identified as a potential solution to the ongoing left back issue.

It seems clear that Pellegrini wants to strengthen in January, and his swapping between Masuaku and Cresswell is a  clear indicator that he doesn’t particularly trust either player.

It’s difficult to say who may be more at risk of the chop out of the two, although Masuaku has been handed more minutes despite his poor form.