Edson Álvarez returns from suspension and is available for selection for the West Ham vs Arsenal Premier League fixture on Saturday.
Ordinarily, Álvarez would look to come straight back into the Hammers team and help protect the defence, particularly given the Gunners’ recent demolition of Nottingham Forest.
However, West Ham head coach Julen Lopetegui must resist any temptation to throw the Mexican back into the fold at the London Stadium. For the first time this season, the Spaniard’s Irons team displayed real balance in midfield, benefitting particularly from having two technical players in Carlos Soler and Lucas Paquetá.
Far too many times this campaign, the central area has featured two defensive players rather than two creative ones at its heart, and the difference was stark.
West Ham vs Arsenal is a tough game at the best of times, but Lopetegui has bought himself some breathing space with the 2-0 win against Newcastle at St. James’ Park. In many respects, the pressure is off against Mikel Arteta’s Gooners, but it’s crucial he establishes some midfield continuity.
It’s also worth noting that the Hammers’ discipline was much improved against the Magpies, and keeping eleven players on the pitch will be vital on Saturday. For all his attributes, Álvarez is a hothead who, I’m sorry to say, can’t be trusted at a time when the team’s fragile recovery is in its infancy.
Hopefully, Lopetegui can use the game to further cement his new line-up ahead of the clash with Leicester City the following Tuesday.
