In a brief interlude from transfer window stories, PSR arguments and general off-season malarkey, the football makes an appearance tonight for anyone willing to grit their teeth and stay up until the wee hours: Those lucky people with Sky+ can simply record the game which starts at eleven thirty tonight and watch it over a breakfast cuppa.
The Hammers take on David Moyes’ Everton in the second game of the Premier league summer series, at Soldier Field, Chicago. Whilst Graham Potter is playing down the result of the game, clearly another loss after the Manchester United performance will not be encouraging!
“At this stage of the season, we’re here to develop the team, the fitness and the performance of the team and environment, but ultimately we’re competitive and we do want to win.” Claims Potter on whufc.com: And then a little teaser suggesting changes before the season starts:
“We play them [Everton] at the end of September, and a lot could change between now and then. For now, we’re just focused on the Summer Series and doing well in the games we’ve got left.” New players? Surely not…
The Hammers manager responded to the question about Alvarez’ involvement, having returned to preseason just this week:
“I think the Everton game might be a bit too soon for him, because he’s only had that one session. Sunday, against Bournemouth, might be more likely for him.
Potter’s confirmation that Edson Alvarez is not yet ready opens up the enticing prospect of Freddie Potts getting a start: After the much- criticised ‘turgid trio’ of Rodriguez, Soucek and Ward-Prowse, hopefully the West Ham manager will use the friendly fixture to give Potts the opportunity he deserves and which Hammers fans long for, instead of a ‘more of the same’ tried and failed midfield trio selection.
Potts showed huge promise in his brief twenty minute cameo, and was mobile, moving far more and passing better than the senior players he replaced.
It’ll be a welcome boost for those of us trying to stay awake before the 1130pm kick off if there is rejuvenation of the starting eleven. Callum Marshall too – now that would be too much to hope for.