West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini appears to have killed off hopes that teenager central defender Goncalo Cardoso could feature in tonight’s game against Newport County.
The 18 year old – signed in the summer from Boavista – may have to settle for life in the under 23s for a while following his switch to the London Stadium.
There were some thoughts that the youngster may be handed a chance tonight but Pellegrini has made it clear that’s not the intention.
The Hammers boss suggested to Football London that Cardoso is not yet ready to play first-team football for the club.
He is reported as having said: to “Goncalo is a young player who maybe needs some more time.”
Fabien Balbuena looks nailed on to return with Nathan Holland and new signing Albian Ajeti tipped to play a part as the Hammers look to overcome their first Carabao Cup hurdle in Wales in Wales which will be shown live on Sky with a 7.45 kick off.