Written by Kevin Slade @S_D_C_C

As we all know, ‘silly season’ is in full swing at the moment with all sorts of rumours flying around the internet since the January transfer window has opened. Andy Carroll to Chelsea? Andre Ayew back to Swansea? Or maybe a loan move for William Carvalho (again)? Stranger things have definitely happened in the wacky world of West Ham United. But the most bizarre one currently doing the rounds is we are supposedly handing a trial to Steven Caulker, who has recently just had his contract terminated by a struggling QPR in the championship. For the life of me I can’t see how this rumour would have any legs whatsoever. Firstly, he isn’t good enough. He wouldn’t take the place of any of the current three centre backs challenging for the starting eleven (Ogbonna, Reid, Collins). Not to mention Declan Rice has come on leaps & bounds since making his first team debut earlier on in the season. And let’s not forget the recall of Reece Oxford from the Bundesliga? Before I continue, there is the argument of “well what about Alfie Mawson being linked then?” Thrown into the mix – Alfie Mawson is a completely different kettle of fish to Steven Caulker. Not only is he a few years younger, he also shows enormous potential in being a regular England international, and is on the cusp of achieving that. Steven Caulker’s career is clearly on the decline – all you have to do is look at his CV & who he’s played for.