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PAULO TO FACE CHOP?

AMID THE FURORE of Premiership teams battling to keep their stars from going on international duty, precious little has been said about misfiring West Ham United striker Paulo Wanchope.

However the Costa Rican international`s enforced six week international lay-off as his national side compete in the Concacaf Cup may spell the end of the gangly marksman`s Premiership career.

Wanchope has only managed two goals in 20 league appearances for the Hammers this year and has faced widespread criticism from the Upton Park faithful.

His absence may open the door to Paul Kitson, if the former Newcastle star recovers from a back injury, and manager Harry Redknapp could choose to cut his losses on his £3 million signing at the end of the season.

Football pundit and West Ham legend Trevor Brooking has admitted that the star could face the axe saying: "His misery goes on and it remains to be seen whether Harry thinks about using him in some sort of deal in the summer."

"It has been difficult for him because [Paolo] Di Canio has come in and done well which always invites comparisons between the two.

"Di Canio is an entertainer and has won the fans over whilst Wanchope has struggled."

The 23 year old striker made his name at Derby where his undoubted ability and unpredictable ball skills pushed him firmly into the media`s attention along with several wonderful goals.

Wanchope scored 23 goals in his 65 league appearances for Derby but has only managed five in all competitions since his summer move and it is his lack of strikes that may, ultimately, see him move on from Upton Park.

Patrick Goss