Tim Steidten is hoping that two recent West Ham signings will become leaders on and off the pitch.

Despite a lack of signings in the January transfer window, Tim Steidten has been an excellent addition to West Ham’s back-room staff. While he has not had too much of an opportunity to put his recruitment expertise into practice when it comes to identifying players, he has played a key role when it comes to finalising deals.

One Hammer that we know Steidten played a huge role in convincing to join West Ham is Edson Alvarez. The Mexican has been pivotal in the Irons’ transition away from Declan Rice, and has become incredibly vocal in the changing room.

Evidently, he is someone that Steidten believes has had the impact he would have hoped for. “He has a very big influence on our game,” he told Sky Sports Germany. “l am very happy that Dortmund may have been a bit slow and I had the chance to get him. I have also known him for a very long time. He is a super important player for us. He is a leader. An absolute leadership figure. He is top.”

While West Ham only managed to bring in one addition last month, it is one that everyone has high expectations for. We all know the ability that Kalvin Phillips possesses, but he will need time to settle in and find match fitness again. When he does, the German is confident that he will have the same sort of influence as Alvarez. 

“We were looking for someone who is also a leader. We have known him for a long time. The conversations were very good. I believe it will work out well.”

Our Irons recruitment was spot on in the Summer, let’s hope that Steidten and his team made the right decision by signing Phillips. He certainly could go on to be another leader on and off the pitch, just like Alvarez has.