West Ham took a gamble on Jack Wilshere this summer, given his injury history, and he has already been struck down.
The English midfielder has undergone ankle surgery on a problem that pre-dated his arrival at the London Stadium.
He is expected to be out for around six weeks while he is treated. While it could be worse for the Hammers, Manuel Pellegrini must find a way to cope without Wilshere. We’ve looked at how he can do exactly that…
Follow the Goodison blueprint
Pellegrini shuffled his pack at Goodison on Sunday and came out with a 4-3-3 that ended up winning the day.
Declan Rice was exceptional as a holding midfield player and Pedro Obiang offered some much-needed energy. He was able to contribute at both ends and gives Pellegrini legs which knits the elements of the side together.
Completing the midfield trio was captain Mark Noble. If Wilshere was fit, it’s Noble’s position in the engine room that would be most at risk.
Noble was instrumental in setting the standard in terms of energy and work rate at Goodison. He was also reportedly responsible for the collective improvement in the team.
Consistency is key
There are question marks over Noble’s ability to marry on-pitch performance with his leadership qualities on a regular basis, but if he can, then Wilshere will not be missed.
Pellegrini’s experiments with a number 10 have not been successful but persisting with a midfield three – which Wilshere can slot right back into upon his return – are the best way to ensure he is not missed.
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