West Ham United have completed the signing of Rui Pedro Silva as assistant to manager Nuno Espirito Santo, reuniting the pair after successful spells at Wolves and Nottingham Forest. Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness describes Silva as the 'missing piece of the puzzle' for West Ham's Championship campaign next season, following their relegation from the Premier League with 39 points (10W-9D-19L) and a -19 goal difference.
Rui Pedro Silva has worked alongside Nuno at five different clubs, including during Wolves' record 99-point Championship season. Wyness, now a football consultant, tells reporters that Silva is 'like another part of Nuno's brain'. The Portuguese duo also led Nottingham Forest to Premier League promotion, making Silva's experience invaluable for West Ham's immediate return ambitions.
With Nuno's position now secured, West Ham are targeting Everton winger Dwight McNeil. Former Hammers scout Mick Brown reveals McNeil is keen on a London move after limited game time last season (14 Premier League starts). The 26-year-old's potential arrival would add creativity to a squad that scored 46 goals last term but conceded 65.
Wyness believes Silva's appointment makes West Ham 'favourites to go up next year', given their Premier League infrastructure and Nuno's proven promotion record. The Hammers finished 46 points behind Arsenal last season but are now assembling a squad capable of dominating the second tier, with Silva's tactical insight expected to be key in tight Championship games.
