No Newport call-up likely for defender

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.