David Moyes looks set to name a strong side for the clash with Gillingham tomorrow but with a noticeable absence of two regulars.
Neither skipper Mark Noble or Aaron Cresswell will travel to the Priestfield which presumably leaves Arthur Masuaku and Carlos Sanchez to full the left-back and midfield positions.
However, the boss may plump for a three at the back formation as we understand that Winston Reid has been included along with Issa Diop, Fabian Balbuena and Angelo Ogbonna.
It seems that the other major players – apart from Michail Antonio – will all be available to the manager as he bid to achieve back to back wins in the first two games on his return to the London Stadium.
We have been told that both Lukasz Fabianski and Roberto will also be travelling to Kent with no decision yet on who will get the nod.
Beyond tomorrow’s team selection there have been rumours doing the rounds that the manager could turn to Joe Cole as a member of his backroom staff.
However, both sources close to the former player claim that there have been no approaches.
Here’s our possible line up: Roberto; Fredericks, Diop, Ogbonna, Masuaku; Rice, Sanchez, Snodgrass , Lanzini, Anderson, Haller
He cannot put Roberto in goal. Moyes stated he was taking the cup seriously.
Please no Sanchez though.If we are taking this competition seriously there can be no place for him.Truly awful imposter of a footballer.
If Roberto and Sanchez play, then we would need 13 players on the pitch….with 2 in goals ????
Nonetheless, really hope Moyes choose a strong side, and maybe again include Holland. We cannot afford a dip after the Bournemouth excellent performance.
Coyi. God bless West Ham.
Gillingham for the cup !
Avoid utility of Masuaku & Jimenes at all costs!
Please not Sanchez or Roberto, thought Moyes said we were taking the FA Cup seriously. Both need to be sold this window along with Reid, Wilshere and Masuaku to bring in genuine quality. Would love to see Holland in starting lineup and Grady brought back from loan.
We know the Gills are full of confidence and energy. They will love the slow lethargic Sanchez in midfield and spend the evening running round him so they can ping shots at Roberto from all angles. Steve Evans is a shrewd manager and will exploit these weakest of links. Why not give Coventry or Joe Powell a start. They would surely do a better midfield job. I Fab isn’t fit enough I would rather put Anang in goal. Both Roberto and Sanchez have had numerous chances and failed miserably on each occasion. What makes the manager think this time will be different?
Mooro
Agree entirely.
Sanchez is so useless.
Doesn’t care where we know Coventry would have the desire.
Holland too needs a proper chance
I don’t understand why the kids ain’t being introduced all other clubs play there youngsters..and yet the 23’s are riding top of the league unbeaten.Alfie Lewis,Joe Powell,Nathan Holland have exceptional this season