Allardyce outlines West Ham’s January transfer plans

By Nick Wright Saturday, December 15, 2012
9:45 AM

Manager Sam Allardyce says West Ham will focus on bringing in players who can make an immediate impact in the January transfer window.

With the likes of Andy Carroll, Mohamed Diame, George McCartney and Yossi Benayoun all injured, the Hammers are thin on the ground with the hectic festive fixture pile-up fast approaching.

After Sunday’s clash against West Brom at the Hawthorns, they face tricky tests against Arsenal, Everton and Reading in the space of a week.

Allardyce is keen to add to his depleted squad when the transfer window opens next month but says he will only consider players who are an upgrade on what he’s already got and fully prepared to slot straight into the team.

When asked who he might target, the West Ham boss said: “Any player that’s available, that’s better than what we have or can go straight into the first-team we feel would be a choice for us.”

He continued: “It is critical for us to maybe get one or two players in that period.

“In terms of what the January window brings, it’s not about you bringing this, that or the other, it’s about what’s available.

“And then do you think it’s going to contribute to your first-team and if it is, you’ve got to bring it in and strengthen the squad.”