Felipe Anderson accused of not being able to 'cut it' during failed West Ham spell

Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster has claimed former West Ham player Felipe Anderson could not 'cut it' in the Premier League.

The ex-England player did not hold back with his opinion of Anderson, who at the time of his arrival was the Hammers record transfer signing.

The Brazilian's arrival came for a fee in the region of £36million but the attacking-midfielder failed to live up to the hype and, after two underwhelming seasons, was sent out on loan.

Following his season away from West Ham at Porto, for whom he only made five league appearances amid criticism from manager Sergio Conceicao who claimed he "needs to work harder", Anderson returned to the Hammers.

The 28-year-old began pre-season with the Hammers and traveled to Scotland for a pre-season training camp but the end was nigh on his disappointing spell in England.

Former club Lazio came in for him and agreed a reported £3m deal to bring him back to Italy, ending a costly and frustrating deal for the Hammers.

Whilst recognising his talent, Foster has been critical of the Brazil international's spell in the Premier League.

"No, [we did not get to see the best of him],” said Foster on his YouTube channel. "Apparently he was on massive money as well.

"He never really took to the Premier League very well. It’s very difficult for these South American players to come over and hit the ground running.

"It never worked out for him. Obviously, a technically gifted player. But he just couldn’t cut it in the Premier League."

Since his return to Italy, Anderson has slotted straight into Maurizio Sarri's first XI starting both of Lazio's Serie A matches.

He has a goal and an assist to his name helping Lazio to a perfect start to the season and top of the table.

In his absence, last season and this campaign West Ham have seemingly not missed the Brazilian. Hammers boss David Moyes led his team to a record Premier League points tally of 65, a top-six finish and Europa League qualification.

Wets Ham have begun this season in fine fashion with seven points from their opening three matches and are currently second in the league. The creativity and goals scored has not been adversely affected in Anderson's absence, either.

During the Brazilian's two seasons at the club, West Ham scored 52 and 49 goals whilst managing 62 while he was on loan at Porto and this season have managed ten in just three matches.