West Ham attacking midfielder Pablo Fornals played a key role in securing victory against Gillingham in the FA Cup third-round tie last night.
The Spaniard replaced Robert Snodgrass on 70 minutes before he was involved in the build-up for Pablo Zabaleta’s goal. He then went on to score himself in injury time to secure the team’s passage into the next round.
Supporters believe Fornals is finally showing the sort of form that led to the Hammers shelling out £24m on him in the summer:
Lil Magician! Will be our top creator imo & £23m will prove to be a bargain. Don't get most assists in La Liga (12) tied w Messi at 21 if your not good. Just needed a a lil time & run of games. He has been great imk last 5-6 games.
— Joshua (@SchroerJr) January 5, 2020
talent was always there, what impresses is the spirit and dedication to adapt to the premier league. Hes waited for the opportunity to shine and taken it with confidence. He has a bright future but best all of he’s a Hammer he didn’t know it when he joined but it’s in his blood!
— Mr Lahididah Gunner Graham (@christlog) January 5, 2020
He is quality….. only gonna keep improving
— andrew wickstead (@AndrewWickstead) January 5, 2020
He's quality, no shame in taking a little time to settle into a new country and a new league, especially at his age. Still convinced we have a very good player on our hands.
— Gnat (@mattaw1982) January 5, 2020
His a grafter, always gives his all and is desperate to improve. All the right qualities you want from a player as young as him.
— Buder (@Perezrudi) January 5, 2020
Get behind the lad. Many have failed in this league and he needs at least a season.
— Gavlaar (@gavblake14) January 5, 2020
Quality player will be one of are best in time. Keep up the good work fornals
— Steve (@49whufc_smh) January 5, 2020
Gotta admit, I wrote him off to quickly, looking very good and worth the 24mil paid
— Adam (@IamChadbacca) January 5, 2020
Quality player.
— Rod Jones (@RodJones18) January 5, 2020
There can be no hiding from the fact that the 23-year-old has struggled to adapt to English football since his arrival in the country, but there have been some good signs in recent weeks.
Fornals provided assists in the 3-1 win defeat versus Arsenal and for Sebastien Haller’s winner against Southampton last month. He followed that up with his first Premier League goal in the loss to Leicester.
Hopefully, his latest strike will give him even more confidence heading into upcoming league games versus Sheffield United and Everton.