West Ham signed Edvin Austbø this summer because they believe he is a top attacking talent who can bring goals to their team and help them secure instant promotion back to the Premier League. The youngster has already started showing why the club were keen to bring him in, making an early impact since completing his move.
Austbø was superb at Viking, helping them qualify for the Champions League before sealing his move to the English club. He is now working his way towards a starting place, although he still needs time to settle into his new surroundings and adapt to the demands of his new team.
Austbø scores first West Ham goal
However, he may not need as much time as expected, with Nettavisen reporting that Austbø scored his first goal for West Ham over the weekend in just his second appearance for the team.
The attacker made his debut against Wolves in a 4-2 win, coming off the bench for the final 11 minutes of normal time. He was handed another substitute role against Derby County over the weekend as West Ham continued to manage his introduction to the team.
Austbø once again came off the bench, this time playing 13 minutes. Despite having limited time on the pitch, he made the most of his opportunity by scoring one goal and providing an assist for the other.
West Ham could hand Austbø a start
Performances like this should help Austbø move closer to earning a starting place in the West Ham team. His ability to make an immediate contribution after coming off the bench will encourage the club and strengthen the belief that he can become an important attacking player.
West Ham will also recognise that the youngster is already showing signs of adapting quickly. While he still needs time to settle into the team, his early performances suggest that he can make a difference when given an opportunity.
The goal and assist against Derby County could therefore prove significant for Austbø as he looks to establish himself. West Ham may now believe the time has come to trust him with a start in the coming weeks and give him a greater opportunity to show what he can offer.
