Former West Ham United defender and cult-hero Thilo Kehrer is currently shining at the top of Ligue 1 with Monaco, in an interview with BILD, the German explained the reason for his success after leaving East London.

Thilo Kehrer signed for West Ham for a reasonable fee of around £10m in August 2022, when his market value was almost double that. The German made 50 appearances in claret and blue, including 8 matches in the UEFA Conference League winning run.

Kehrer was a player that West Ham fans were drawn to because he played with his heart on his sleeve, he would often encourage the crowd during matches which is what Hammers fans love to see. However, he didn’t completely live up to expectations and failed to nail down a consistent position in the team.

The former PSG and Schalke man was brought in as a squad option, and that was highlighted by the different positions he played in. The 28-year-old played all over the backline for the Hammers, often straying from his natural centre-back position to play right-back, or even left-back on a few occasions. In fact, he also played some games in defensive midfield when Declan Rice was missing.

Kehrer has highlighted this as one of the reasons why he didn’t quite flourish in East London compared to how he plays now. He said: “Being flexible is a strength. But for me it is very helpful to have a fixed position in the centre. That is when I am at my best.”

The former Hammers is currently paired at the heart of the defence with former Southampton player Mohammed Salisu, Les Monegasques currently sit top of Ligue 1 having only conceded four goals in eight matches.

He also praised the confidence and trust he feels from the club, saying: “A number of things come together. Self-confidence, playing time, trust from the club, coach and teammates.”

It would be a momentous occasion if Monaco could pip PSG to the title this term and win their first title in almost ten years, and I’m sure most West Ham fans will be cheering Kehrer on as he has a place in most of our hearts after playing a part in the Conference League victory.