Perez mystery absence explained

Lucas Perez was absent from the West Ham 18 man squad yesterday but the striker is not suffering from a new injury. The 30-year-old was dropped by Manuel Pellegrini unimpressed with the way he trained during the week.

Asked about Perez’s absence by reporters post-match Pellegrini answered “Same as Marko, I chose the 18 players that were better during the week.”

Real Betis remain keen on signing Lucas Perez from West Ham claim Estadio Deportivo

Betis want a loan with an option to buy while West Ham has demanded any loan came with a compulsory transfer deal in the summer. West Ham wants £4m for the striker they purchased for the same fee with £880,000 as an upfront payment.

Spanish publication AS has reported that Perez is also an ‘option’ for Barcelona. Ernesto Valverde is looking for a backup for Luis Suarez say AS with only one remaining out-and-out striker at Camp Nou.

Perez has managed two goals in 10 Premier League appearances for West Ham this season.