Max Kilman Targets England Recognition Post West Ham Switch

Max Kilman, West Ham's new acquisition, remains hopeful about representing England someday. He believes his consistent performances might eventually earn him a debut call-up. Kilman transferred from Wolves to the Hammers in a £40 million deal earlier in the transfer window, marking Julen Lopetegui's third signing.

Despite being one of just two defenders, alongside Arsenal's William Saliba, to play every minute of the 2023-24 Premier League season, Kilman was not included in Gareth Southgate's England squad for Euro 2024. Instead, Jarrad Branthwaite, Lewis Dunk, and Ezri Konsa were preferred. Interim manager Lee Carsley will soon select his first squad for the Three Lions' upcoming Nations League matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland next month.

"It's definitely a big aim for me. I have been competing against other Premier League central defenders in the last couple of years and I have been consistent," Kilman told BBC Sport. "I want to get as high as I can as a player so playing for England would be a huge honour."

Kilman admits he did not expect to leave Wolves but finds comfort in returning to London, where he grew up. "I never thought I would leave Wolves," Kilman said. "I was there for so long, so this is something a bit unusual, but I was born and raised in London, which makes it a bit easier and I am really happy to be at West Ham."

The defender also highlighted that new boss Lopetegui played a significant role in his decision to move to London Stadium. "The manager is obviously a big factor. He did a really good job at Wolves," Kilman stated. "There are not many teams who have started bottom of the league at Christmas and stayed out of it."

Lopetegui's high standards and expectations have pushed players to their limits, helping them improve significantly. "He had really high standards and wanted every player to reach the top of their game," Kilman added. "He has pushed players to their limits. He helped me improve so much."

West Ham United announced on July 6, 2024: "We are delighted to announce the signing of Wolverhampton Wanderers central defender Maximilian Kilman." The 27-year-old has signed a seven-year contract at London Stadium after spending six successful years at Molineux.