You may remember Axel Disasi as being part of the Chelsea "bomb" squad in recent times, alongside the likes of Raheem Sterling, who eventually had his contract mutually terminated before joining Dutch side Feyenoord. 

The situation for Disasi was not quite as terminal, as he did at least take part in training under both Enzo Maresca and then Liam Rosenior, even though it was clear he was never going to play. 

Nevertheless, the last part there is crucial there. He wasn't going to play. So, he had to leave, and that he did - joining fellow Premier League side West Ham United on loan in January, where by all accounts he is playing pretty well. 

Speaking to Sky Sports, the defender opened up on his situation in SW6: "If I say everything, maybe I will get into trouble, but it was tough (the first half of the season at Chelsea). It was very tough to be watching every single week, every single weekend the games on the TV. 

I was just working, waiting for my time - that's why now I'm just enjoying (playing) because I know what it feels like to be in front of the TV and not on the pitch. I learned to be more patient, to stay professional, even if the circumstances were hard." 

Fair play to him. It is clear he wanted to say more but knew he had to be smart with what he said, and as he mentioned, not get himself into trouble. It just begs the question - why could this move to West Ham not have happened in the summer instead? 

Since moving to East London, the defender has played very well, as part of a defence that sits deep and likes to defend their own box. A great move for him that suits his style, aligns with his attributes, and hides his flaws. A much better move than the loan to Aston Villa last season. 

So, with things going this well, six months could have been saved. Disasi featured in the last World Cup final, yet it feels like he is nowhere near the squad this time. If he had been playing, and playing well, for West Ham all season, perhaps he would be in with a shot. 

But, well, better late than never. We forget these players are humans too, and it is great to see that the Frenchman is enjoying his football again. If the Hammers avoid relegation, perhaps we will him back at the London Stadium next season. 

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