Expert draws Newcastle player comparison for West Ham star who has struggled this season.

Crysencio Summerville may need to put his personal ambitions on pause following a challenging season riddled with injuries — struggles that have mirrored those of his team.

It’s difficult to pin much blame on the Dutch winger himself.

Last season, he was clearly a cut above in the Championship, impressing as Leeds United fell short of promotion despite their promising position.

After his move, he failed to find favour under Julen Lopetegui and has since been plagued by setbacks.

Graham Potter saw flashes of what Summerville could bring in his debut appearance for Aston Villa in the FA Cup, where he notched an assist and showed real promise.

Unfortunately, that turned out to be his only real moment of impact this season, as he picked up a hamstring injury during that game.

After his exit, West Ham lost the tie at Villa Park, and he hasn’t featured since.

Despite the disappointment, Summerville’s quality remains undeniable.

He’s had a stop-start campaign, but those who have seen him at his best understand the threat he can pose.

With time still on his side — he’s only 23 — the winger has aspirations of becoming a mainstay in the Premier League and earning a regular spot with the Dutch national team.

Watching from the sidelines, however, has surely been difficult for him, particularly knowing how much energy and creativity he could add to a West Ham side struggling for form.

Veteran broadcaster and football pundit Ian Darke drew an interesting parallel between Summerville and Newcastle’s Harvey Barnes, pointing out how both players have struggled to establish themselves as consistent starters despite obvious talent.

“It’s been a frustrating year for Summerville, and for West Ham as a whole,” Darke told West Ham Zone.

“He’s had a few moments where we’ve seen what he’s capable of, but he hasn’t broken through.

It’s similar to Harvey Barnes at Newcastle — both are clearly gifted players who just haven’t fully convinced their managers.”

Darke added that only time will tell how Potter evaluates Summerville’s role once he returns to full fitness.

For West Ham fans, the remainder of the season feels like a formality. Relegation is no concern, but the campaign has underwhelmed, especially considering the club’s significant investment last summer.

Many supporters are disillusioned, particularly with the transition from Upton Park to the less electric atmosphere of the London Stadium — something that will be more apparent now that only pride is left to play for.

This final stretch should serve as an audition for players hoping to be part of Potter’s plans in 2025–26.

With no pressure on results, the manager has a window to assess the squad and identify who can be integral going forward.

West Ham must be shrewder in the transfer market next time, especially with tighter budgets likely.

Summerville could yet prove to be a smart acquisition, offering flair and dynamism without the premium price tag.