In need of a win to start to move up the table, Graham Potter has named a strong squad for the visit of West London’s Brentford this afternoon. Faced with the options of starting loanee Evan Ferguson, the Hammers head coach has opted for caution by naming Ferguson in the squad but not as a starter – presumably we will see him at some stage this afternoon. Depending on results, West Ham could climb upto thirteenth place with a victory this afternoon which would certainly make every Hammers fan breathe a little easier. Victory would mean the Hammers have 30 points, opening welcome breathing space from the relegation zone.
Graham Potter is ahead on the form between the two managers – Thomas Frank has never beaten Potter in six attempts – five wins and a draw puts Graham Potter very much ahead – but ‘records are made to be broken’ – just not today, please.
Crysencio Summerville, Michail Antonio and Niclas Fullkrug remain absent through injury although attendees at the game will have a chance to welcome back Michail Antonio as he is presented before kick off for 62000 Hammers fans to offer him true West Ham support in his recovery.
Potter has surprised us again with another different starting eleven which looks very like a 4-3-3
West Ham United starting XI:
Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Emerson, Alvarez, Soucek, Soler, Kudus, Paquetá, Bowen
Remember to check back immediately the final whistle is blown for ‘Gonzo’s player ratings’ and our ‘final whistle first impressions’ reports.
He had them set up poorly today, that one is on potter I’m afraid
Potter little choice of lineup has he Board wont spend any money when needed Nothing ever changes
We are getting run ragged again….and once again we concede in first few minutes..lucky not to be 4 down ..
Struggling to get my head round it ..
They had 12 shots 5 on target..we’ve had 5vwith one on target…with there goals disallowed we have a chance to put it right in second half..but he needs to change something
Not sure what I was expecting, but I’m finding the line up a little underwhelming. In view with Mavrapanos starting Brentford are already 1-0 up.
Coufal not even in the squad, injured?
Looks stronger than a couple of games back, with a far stronger bench. I’m feeling optimistic about today…
Let’s hope that reverting to a back 4 doesn’t lead to the resurfacing of the defensive vulnerabilities that were present under Lopetegui.
I’m surprised he didn’t stick with the back 3. But in Potter we trust!