Paqueta exit has given Summerville 'opportunity'

West Ham United winger Crysencio Summerville has seized the chance to “flourish” in the wake of Lucas Paqueta’s departure, according to former Hammers goalkeeper David James.

The 24-year-old Dutchman, signed from Leeds United, underlined his resurgence by climbing off the bench to score a late winner against League One Burton Albion in the FA Cup fourth round. The goal, his sixth in seven appearances, preserved West Ham’s hopes of a cup run and extended the club’s recent stretch to only one defeat in their last seven matches.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily podcast, James said the timing of Summerville’s upturn is no coincidence. “With Paqueta leaving, the rest of the players have the opportunity to flourish and Summerville has fallen into that,” he explained. “If you look at his recent form, it’s all since Paqueta has not been there.”

James, who made more than 100 appearances for West Ham, admitted he had been waiting for the winger to replicate the performances that made him a standout at Leeds. “I thought he was a great signing when they signed him,” he added. “Sometimes he was superb at Leeds, and now we’re seeing it.”

Despite the positive momentum on the pitch, the victory over Burton was accompanied by renewed protests from supporters directed at the club’s board. James believes tangible progress during matches can still galvanise the fan base. Recalling the recent Premier League meeting with Manchester United, he said: “The atmosphere at the London Stadium was rocking. Up until the last minute, that place was superb. If they do the stuff on the pitch, then they get the fans behind them.”

Summerville’s impact under manager Nuno Espirito Santo has provided a timely boost as West Ham attempt to balance domestic cup ambitions with a push up the Premier League table. Whether the winger can maintain his prolific streak may prove pivotal to the club’s fortunes in the months ahead.