Robert Snodgrass Commits to West Ham for 2017/18 Season

As Brace the Hammer’s leading Robert Snodgrass apologist, it is fitting that I break this wondrous news. Robert Snodgrass will be playing for West Ham next season, as he looks to build upon a disappointing season.

The Daily Mail report that following talks with Slaven Bilic, Snodgrass will remain at the club, despite interest from Premier League newcomers, Brighton and Hove Albion. The Scotland international said:

“It's not easy moving to a new club in the middle of the season but I chose to join West Ham above other teams because of their great tradition and fanbase and I'm determined to make it a success.

There were some factors that made things difficult last season. I was living away from my family because we didn't want to interrupt schooling but next season I'll have my wife and three kids with me.

I was also asked to play on the left to fill the gap vacated by Dmitri Payet but it's never been my position. I've scored nearly a hundred goals as a mainly right-sided player and I've said to the manager that's where I think I'm most effective.

We've had a very good discussion and hopefully I'll be given a run of games where I'm comfortable. If it doesn't happen right away, I will have to wait for my chance.

I'm really looking forward to meeting up with the West Ham boys for pre-season and starting again.”

Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Snodgrass’ time at London Stadium has been frustrating for all involved, he left Hull City in January as their top goal scorer but has failed to hit the back of the net for the Irons.

The 29-year-old touched upon this ahead of Scotland’s upcoming fixture with England:

“I scored nine goals for Hull and a hat-trick for Scotland in the first half of the season, you don't do that and then become an average player overnight, so I know I can contribute to West Ham.

I was heartened by playing on the right for the final game against Burnley which we won. It gave me a bit of confidence and I want to take that momentum into the new season. I don't know where the stories have come about moving on. I am committed to West Ham.

It feels as if I've had two different seasons already but playing England in a World Cup qualifier is a great way to go into the summer.

After that, I can't wait to rejoin the lads at West Ham for pre-season training and show the real me.”

Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images

While many have questioned the Scotsman’s quality during his West Ham career there have been many factors which have limited his effectiveness for the club. Being away from his family can’t have helped, nor can being asked to play out of position.

It’s also important to note that of Snodgrass’ 15 West Ham appearances, eight of these came from the bench. I am confident that a full preseason at the club will do wonders for integrating the player and he will come out swinging for the fences next season.

Photo by Mark Robinson/Getty Images