Ryan Fredericks, the right-back we signed on a free transfer from Fulham last summer.
Starting as a young player at Spurs with loans at Brentford, Millwall and Middlesbrough, Fredericks eventually signed for Bristol city in 2015. He only managed four appearances before signing for Fulham. He went on to make 106 appearances for the Cottagers; his last season winning promotion to the Premier League via the playoffs before signing for us last summer. He was named in the Championship team of the season 2017/18.
He made a total of 18 appearances in all competitions for the Hammers last season, registering two goals and one assist in what was a relatively good season for him considering he spent a large chunk of the season injured and quickly established himself as the first choice right-back.
The pacey full-back loves to get forward and can deliver a wonderful cross when attacking. His pace helps the team out a lot when there is a counter attack situation – whether that’s attacking or defending. Given this was his first season in the Premier League, it’s fair to say many were sceptical about the signing but y this season he has demonstrated, in small periods, what he can do and I think he’s made the right-back spot his own ahead of Pablo Zabaleta and Ben Johnson.
I think he has settled into the Premier League and I am looking forward to seeing him this season. Whatever formation Manuel Pellegrini decides to use, I think he will be one of the first names on the team sheet.
He’s only 26, now has a bit more experience in the league and is playing in a side with top quality players – he can only keep getting better and become one of our key players this season.
By Caulay Howell (@Caulay__)
(Images from whufc.com)