Though there's more likely combinations to happen in the summer, it is possible that Sheffield United and West Ham swap places in terms of the divisions they play in for next season.

Ask some Blades, too, and that might seem like justice for their perception of Carlos Tevez's stint with the Hammers but let's not wade too deep into those waters because, importantly, West Ham were not found of any wrongdoing.

It's also more likely that the London club will stay up this season despite their current woes as they do have some attacking players that are better than those at the clubs around them.

For sure, though, they need to sort their defence out in the summer and, conveniently enough, it could be a Blades centre-half that helps solve that:

The Hammers have an ageing back-line that, unfortunately for them, is past its best.

For sure, then, they need to freshen it up and O'Connell is one of the brighter defenders in the Championship that won't cost an arm and a leg.

That might appeal to the owners, of course, but this isn't a player that's cheap because he's not good enough - his stock is going to increase sooner rather than later.

He reads the game immaculately for the Blades and is very comfortable ball in a division that is normally played on fast forward.

He's a physical presence, too, and though he'd be raw, he'd be committed to the Claret and Blue shirt from the get-go.

Hammers fans want to see players hungry to play for their club and O'Connell would combine that with ever improving ability.

It's a deal they should really consider.

Thoughts, West Ham fans? Let us know below!

[ad_pod ]