Rogue striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is set for West Ham return confirms Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta after weekend controversy.
West Ham face Arsenal on Wednesday night with the Gunners breathing down their necks for a place in the top four.
If the Hammers fail to beat Burnley then a victory for Arsenal over West Ham will see Mikel Arteta’s side leapfrog David Moyes’s boys.
And it seems West Ham could be facing a highly motivated striker with a big point to prove in the shape of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The rogue Arsenal captain was dropped from the Gunners squad for their 3-0 win over Southampton for a ‘disciplinary breach’.
The Athletic reported it was because he returned late from an authorised trip abroad.
Rogue striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang set for West Ham return confirms Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
But speaking to the press after Arsenal’s victory, Arteta confirmed the disciplinary action he took against Aubameyang was for one game and he is set for a return to the squad against West Ham (Sky Sports).
So that means West Ham could be facing a player with a big point to prove. And one that is refreshed after a prolonged rest.
You would think it unlikely Aubameyang starts against West Ham regardless.
That means Alexandre Lacazette – who has an annoying habit of scoring against West Ham – should start again.
Arsenal have improved this season.
But Moyes will still fancy his side’s chances when he takes on his close friend and former captain Arteta.
When it comes to Arsenal and strikers there are a few West Ham links right now.
Both Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah have been linked with moves to West Ham in the January window.
The duo are out of contract in the summer and may be available for knockdown prices.
Lacazette would not really fit the profile of player Moyes has stated he wants to build West Ham around.
The young and promising talent Nketiah would. But he has not – as yet – proved himself in the Premier League when given the chance.