The EFL Cup tie at home to League Two outfit Macclesfield Town presents Manuel Pellegrini with an opportunity, in more ways than one.
He can rest some of his star turns, especially the ones who have had to work hard to adjust to English football. The Chilean can also give his fringe players a chance to shine; rewarding those who have worked hard and handing underperformers a chance to regain their form.
On top of that, Pellegrini has a chance to continue the momentum generated by two positive results; not to mention further progress in a competition that likely represents his best chance of clinching silverware in his first season at the club.
But which starting eleven should he field? We’ve taken a closer look…
Goalkeeper and Back Four
This one represents an opportunity to bring back in some players who have been forced out in recent weeks.
Lukasz Fabianski’s form means the cups represent Adrian’s only current hope of gametime, injury permitting. Underperforming full-backs Ryan Fredericks and Aaron Cresswell should both get a chance to shine; they need to take it, as Arthur Masuaku and especially Pablo Zabaleta have performed admirably lately.
At the heart of defence, Fabian Balbuena and Issa Diop are developing a partnership. That has frozen Angelo Ogbonna out, so he should get 90 minutes here. It’s a toss-up between Diop and Balbuena alongside him – provided Reece Oxford doesn’t get the nod. Balbuena was excellent on Sunday and should get the chance to build on that.
Midfield
The absence of Jack Wilshere has shorn Pellegrini of midfield options to some degree. Declan Rice, Mark Noble and Pedro Obiang have formed an impressive trio in the past two games; and two of the three will likely have to play again here.
Unless Pellegrini moves Felipe Anderson into a number 10 role – and the Brazilian has earned a rest after a breathless start in English football – he doesn’t have a great deal of choice.
Colombian Carlos Sanchez should come in to ease Noble’s workload; as well as getting his own Hammers career off the ground belatedly.
Attack
Robert Snodgrass’ attitude has been exemplary so far this season, but he is yet to be handed a real opportunity to show what he can do. That should change here.
Pellegrini’s striker crisis makes it a toss-up between Michail Antonio – valued at £13.5m by Transfermarkt – and Lucas Perez up top.
The former Arsenal man should get the nod on the left, with Antonio through the middle. That front three would be fluid and could change positions at will if necessary.
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