The news that West Ham’s Manor Solomon is doubtful for his national side’s fixture tomorrow will have been greeted with dismay at West Ham’s Rush Green HQ.
The hectic schedule of games in this three week international break has resulted in big demands on several key players, as has been covered countless times in the last two weeks as the games rack up.
Worryingly, Solomon’s back problem may yet impact his ability to play a part in the Hammers’ London derby on Friday night against Queens’ Park Rangers.
Solomon – and West Ham – sweating on fitness after a back problem
However that in turn offers an opportunity for Solomon’s competitor for the left wing spot to stake a claim to the starting jersey. Edvin Austbø has already scored and provided an assist in his limited 104 minute West Ham career – the Norwegian looked an excellent acquisition late in the summer window and would surely relish the chance to start again on Friday night under the lights.
There’s just the small matter of another international for Austbø to complete first.
Norway u21 take on Israel u21 on Tuesday evening – meaning travelling back on Wednesday for a Friday fixture which seems an insane itinerary for whoever at UEFA dreamed it up.
The only positive is that Austbø’s Norway are six points ahead and guaranteed – more or less – to qualify for next summer’s u21 Euros, meaning the young West Ham winger may escape with just a bit part or an early substitution.
The Hammers coaching staff will be keeping their fingers crossed he that doesn’t join Solomon on the sick list – the last thing West Han need with eighteen games coming at a furious pace before the end of 2026.