Hammers’ Sunday afternoon match against Liverpool is one of the toughest tests of Lopetegui’s fragile recovery. Few West Ham fans are holding their breath in anticipation of anything other than ninety minutes of Liverpool being their rampant selves and West Ham defending for their lives.
Julen Lopetegui has multiple injury issues after the plain sailing of early season: Lucas Fabianaski is out, Max Kilman and Carlos Soler doubtful after the Southampton game whilst Michail Antonio is out for the foreseeable future. In addition to add to Lopetegui’s headache, Tomas Soucek and Guido Rodriguez are suspended.
The Hammers’ team news is released! We’re only guessing at the 4-4-2 formation. Lopetegui’s line up for this Sunday ‘twixtmas’ match against the Premier League leaders is as follows:
Areola | Coufal, Mavropanos, Kilman, Wan-Bissaka, | Emerson Alvarez, Soler, Paquetá| Bowen, Kudus
Fullkrug and Summerville back on the bench – along with Ollie Scarles. No place for youngster Kaelan Casey on the bench this time out so Lopetegui must be reasonably certain of Max Kilman’s fitness, but J’Lo still sees Mavropanos as first choice ahead of Jean Clair Todibo.
We’ll have player ratings from Gonzo immediately after the match – and my ‘first impressions’ report-typed-whilst-watching article just after full time so check back to see if you agree with our opinions.
COYI!
