West Ham head to the south coast on Saturday to face Brighton & Hove Albion. The Hammers will be eager to bounce back from the 5-0 drubbing at home to Manchester City on the opening day of the season.
Manuel Pellegrini would have been working with his squad this week, trying to right the wrongs of last Saturday. He could make changes to his starting line-up for the trip to The AMEX too.
Here are three players who will be in contention to start against Brighton after missing out on the starting XI last weekend.
Robert Snodgrass
Robert Snodgrass was introduced as a second-half substitute in place of Jack Wilshere last weekend. While the Scottish midfielder is not everyone’s cup of tea, Pellegrini might bring him back into the side because of his work ethic.
Snodgrass is a more industrious option than some of West Ham’s other flair players. The 31-year-old knows his game plan and sticks to it, as well as providing a threat from set-pieces. He will be targeting Michail Antonio’s spot on the wing or hoping to replace Felipe Anderson or Wilshere if they have knocks.
Pablo Fornals
Many West Ham fans were surprised to see Pablo Fornals on the bench last week. He came on at half-time against Manchester City but will have more chances to show his talent when the Irons face Brighton.
The Spanish midfielder impressed in pre-season and he is surely knocking on the door. Wilshere, Antonio, Anderson or Manuel Lanzini are the candidates to make way for Fornals.
Arthur Masuaku
Aaron Cresswell received heavy criticism after four of Man City’s goals came from West Ham’s left side. Pellegrini should have bought a new left-back in the summer but he will have to use his current options.
Arthur Masuaku has to come back into the side after Cresswell’s nightmare afternoon. The DR Congo international also offers a threat going forward but he will need to work on his defending.
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