West Ham United youngster Nathan Holland has completed his expected loan move to Oxford United, the club revealed on Wednesday.
The Hammers’ attack was always likely to be sent away for the remainder of the season, after being branded as ‘too lightweight’ by both Manuel Pellegrini and current boss David Moyes.
For all the talent that the 21-year-old has at his disposal, he needs to gain a bit in the physicality department, and a few months competing in a promotion bid in League One should really benefit the West Ham man.
Holland has been in excellent form for the Hammers’ under-23 side this term, and as a result of that he has broken into the senior side, firstly making his debut for the club in the Carabao Cup, funnily enough against the club he has just joined, and then his Premier League bow shortly after that.
The West Ham youngster is excited that he is being allowed to leave, and is already looking forward to getting regular games under his belt, in what is sure to be a competitive time for Oxford.
“I can’t wait,” the Hammers official website quotes him as saying.
“I’ve been watching so many clips of Oxford and I’ve spoken to the gaffer there. It’s going to be tough, but I’m looking forward to playing regular men’s football and improving a lot.
“It’s been a really good season so far. Making my Premier League debut definitely topped that, and I just wanted more of that experience, so that’s what I’m going out to get.
“I look forward to challenging myself in men’s football week-in, week-out. I feel fit and strong, and I’m raring to go there, give it my all and see where it takes me.”
Holland could make his Oxford debut against Rotherham United on Saturday afternoon, in what is a huge clash in the race for promotion to the Championship.