Former West Ham director surprised by performances of summer signing, expects more

 

Former West Ham United technical director Gianluca Nani has told the Italian media he’s surprised Simone Zaza has failed to settle at the club. Zaza joined the Hammers in the last window, but has failed to score in his first nine league games.

Speaking to TMW Radio, Nani was asked about the performances of Zaza since he signed for West Ham from Juventus in the summer. The Italian said he was certain the Italy international would have success playing in England, but highlighted the game is different in the Premier League.

However, Nani thinks Zaza can still succeed with West Ham, despite his poor start.

“I’m surprised, I would bet on the success of his performance. In England the football is intense, non-stop, with a different spirit. He could have the opportunity to continue the experience, he will do well. Not many (Italians) abroad, however, do so well,” said the former West Ham director.

In the past few weeks there has been speculation Zaza could leave West Ham in January, and return to Serie A. However, the forward has a clause in his contract that if he plays a certain number of games for the East London side the deal will made permanent.

There’s disagreement in Italy over whether the number is 10 or 14.

If it’s 10, the 24-year-old is just one game away from activating the clause, but was an unused substitute last weekend.