If a compilation of Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s defending is in the works then footage of his courageous goal-saving clearance against Brighton & Hove Albion merits an inclusion.
The right-back ensured West Ham United sealed a point in their last match before Christmas with an incredible header to deny Tariq Lamptey. Wan-Bissaka might have momentarily had a sore head for his troubles, but goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski praised his team-mate. It was fitting that some supporters stood to applaud Wan-Bissaka too. An otherwise mundane game fleetingly evoked a similar response.
The 27-year-old defender, who joined from Manchester United in August for £15million, has been a consistent performer this season. He has adjusted well to Julen Lopetegui’s demands for his full-backs to play advanced roles. He scored his first West Ham goal in the 2-0 victory over Newcastle United and is showing the qualities that made him a highly rated talent. Wan-Bissaka has also kept Vladimir Coufal, previously the first-choice right-back, out of the XI.
“It was from an unbelievable clearance and I thanked him,” Fabianski told The Athletic. “The clearance was as important as any game-changing moment. Aaron has brought energy, quality and good defensive and offensive qualities. He’s been amazing, but you also have to give credit to Vladimir. The way he has responded (to being dropped) has been good along with his performances. The competition in the squad has risen, and hopefully we will continue to improve as a team.
“(In terms of the performance) it was decent. We found ourselves losing but we showed spirit to get back into the game. Then the game became very open after the equaliser. You’re always a bit disappointed, especially with the way that we conceded the goal. I should’ve done better but the team (and Aaron) helped me today.”
Wan-Bissaka left Crystal Palace for Manchester United for £50million in 2019. But there are mitigating factors behind his inability to thrive during his five-year spell at Old Trafford. He struggled with confidence as well as with being away from loved ones. He ruminated on his future with family in the summer.
They all agreed that a fresh start was needed and he returned to London with a point to prove. It has culminated in a career revival. The smile is back, so too are the highlight-reel tackles.
But there were no disorderly queues among clubs aiming to secure Wan-Bissaka’s signature. West Ham’s recruitment team, led by technical director Tim Steidten, felt the defender would be a good addition. Wan-Bissaka replaced Ben Johnson, who joined Ipswich Town in July after the expiration of his contract. Wan-Bissaka described joining West Ham as a “no brainer” and the feeling has been mutual. He has not looked back since his debut against boyhood club Crystal Palace. Two goals in 16 appearances, with potential for assists, is an encouraging start.
After the Carabao Cup win over Bournemouth in August, Wan-Bissaka was reluctant to speak about his England ambitions. The full-back is yet to earn a senior England call-up, but perhaps deserves one. Wan-Bissaka amassed five caps for England U20 and u21s. He has also been capped for the DR Congo U20s.
Thomas Tuchel, who starts officially as England manager in January, has a right-back conundrum. Kyle Walker, 34, is at the twilight of his career and his form for Manchester City has nosedived. Chelsea’s Reece James, 25, continues to suffer injury problems, as does Liverpool defender Joe Gomez, 27. Kieran Trippier, 34, of Newcastle, retired from international football in August.
There are question marks over whether Arsenal defender Ben White, 27, has any intention of rekindling his international career. The only other credible options are Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, 26, and Newcastle’s Tino Livramento, 22, and Manchester City defender Rico Lewis, 20.
“Aaron is a good player, he has started a new period in his life here, building a new career at West Ham,” said Lopetegui before the 5-2 defeat to Arsenal last month. “He is very happy here and we are very happy with him and we trust in him. When you are in a new group, it is not easy at first.
“This question (about an England call-up) is for Tuchel, not for me. I would like all my players in the English national team. For me, the most important thing is that Aaron remains hungry and wants to improve. His attitude tells me he is able to achieve anything.”
In November, Michail Antonio was asked what Wan-Bissaka has brought to the team. The forward was in a jovial mood when he said, “Silence”. Wan-Bissaka saw the humour in the answer, but his response highlighted his “I’m just here to work” mentality.
Wan-Bissaka can be viewed as West Ham’s best summer signing. The arrivals of Crysencio Summerville, Guido Rodriguez, Maximilian Kilman, Niclas Fullkrug, Jean-Clair Todibo and Carlos Soler have all made contributions to Lopetegui’s side. But it is Wan-Bissaka who has most consistently showcased his worth. If he maintains his form, he may be presented with a similar opportunity for Tuchel.
(Top photo: Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images)
