Alex Song showing Arsenal what they're missing

On-loan Barcelona midfielder Alex Song has been a big hit at Upton Park this season, and his impressive form for West Ham will not be going down well in north London.

Song has been a revelation in the middle of the park for the Hammers, particularly in the absence of fellow new signing Cheikhou Kouyate, and Arsenal fans will be questioning the reasons why they did not try to take him back to the Emirates in the summer.

Major coup

The Cameroon international joined on transfer deadline day and is proving to be one of the signings of the season. He has revealed that he was convinced to join the Irons by Sam Allardyce, who spoke of the club’s ambitions and targets for the season.

It is understood that Song passed up the opportunity of playing for a Champions League side in order to seal a move back to the Premier League. His former club could certainly do with someone of his quality in their midfield at present, but it was West Ham who jumped at the opportunity to sign him and they are now reaping the benefits.

Impressive form

The 27-year-old has been magnificent since he has arrived in the Hammers’ starting XI, plugging gaps, making interceptions and generally helping his more expansive team-mates play with freedom.

Song has played in the holding role to great effect, ensuring he keeps the play ticking over with short, accurate passing which provides a calming and assured influence on the rest of the team. He has also been used a little further forward and the power, athleticism and vision he has displayed has been outstanding.

He has shown he has a great eye for a pass and can thread balls through to the strikers with immaculate precision – much like in his days at Arsenal – and he is proving to be a shrewd loan signing.

Permanent deal?

Underappreciated and rarely used in Barcelona, Song will surely be moving on next summer. The Hammers are believed to already be looking at tying up a permanent deal for the midfielder but it may come down to where they finish this season.

A player of Song’s calibre will want to be competing in Europe and West Ham may face some tough competition for him. A regular place in Allardyce’s side is allowing him to once again prove his quality, which could spark outside interest, but it would seem he much prefers life playing in England.

The Hammers will have to hope none of the Premier League big guns come sniffing around and that Song keeps faith that the club are well and truly on the up.