Predicted West Ham United XI to face Wolves: Who should start for the Hammers?
West Ham United have made a torrid start to their Premier League campaign with three back-to-back losses. Although they were helpless in the 4-0 loss to Liverpool, they have only themselves to blame for the defeats to Arsenal and Bournemouth.
They are yet to register their first point in the English top-flight. However, the Hammers haven’t been outrightly poor so far. They have looked good in terms of their attack and they could have scored a lot more goals, had they taken their chances.
Nevertheless, Pellegrini’s men beat Wimbledon 3-1 in the League Cup tie and they must get back to winning ways in the Premier League when they face Wolverhampton Wanderers this weekend.
Team News
Marko Arnautovic suffered a knee injury in the last game against Arsenal while Mark Noble is yet to recover from a back injury.
Manuel Lanzini is unlikely to feature for West Ham this season as he continues to recover from an injury to his anterior cruciate ligament.
Predicted West Ham United XI to face Wolves
Manager: Manuel Pellegrini
Formation: 4-1-4-1
Lukasz Fabianski (GK)
The veteran did not feature in the League Cup tie but he should return against Wolves.
Arthur Masuaku (LB)
The Frenchman has done well for West Ham so far. Blessed with blistering pace, Masuaku’s dribbles down the left side have been quite impressive. Hence, he must replace Aaron Cresswell against Wolves.
Fabian Balbuena (CB)
The Paraguayan did not have the best of games against Arsenal and looked out of position at times. However, Pellegrini should start with Balbuena ahead of Angelo Ogbonna.
Issa Diop (CB)
The new signing has been quite good at the back for the Hammers. He looked solid against Arsenal with his tight marking and played well in the League Cup game as well. He should retain his position in the team.
Ryan Fredericks (RB)
Zabaleta started the game against Wimbledon and looked solid defensively. However, Fredericks looked better with his marking and tackling against Arsenal, making it necessary for Pellegrini to hand him another start.
Robert Snodgrass (RM)
Snodgrass bagged an assist for West Ham’s winner against Wimbledon. He worked hard against Arsenal as well and hence, he should feature in the starting line-up.
Carlos Sanchez (RCM)
He did not have the best of games against Arsenal. While he did not make too many mistakes, Sanchez did not look too involved in the game either. However, Pellegrini must start him ahead of Pedro Obiang.
Jack Wilshere (LCM)
The former Arsenal man has been good at the centre of the park, already displaying glimpses of his past brilliance. Pellegrini should continue to hand him more starts.
Michail Antonio (LM)
The 28-year-old winger had a decent outing against Arsenal. He looked good on the ball and completed some key passes. Thus, he should receive another start.
Felipe Anderson (CAM)
The Brazilian has arguably been West Ham’s best performer so far. He is their key playmaker and the Hammers need him to fire on all cylinders.
Javier Hernandez (ST)
The Mexican scored an injury-time goal in the League Cup tie but looked out of sorts for the rest of the game. However, with Marko Arnautovic on the treatment table, Pellegrini does not have too many choices.
