Despite a thrilling win against Manchester United, calls for Julen Lopetegui’s dismissal have reignited following West Ham United’s disastrous 3-0 defeat versus Nottingham Forest. A massive game awaits this weekend against Everton, and the Spanish boss must turn things around at the London Stadium to survive another international break.
While the Hammers are 14th in the Premier League standings, 16th-placed Toffees are heading towards another relegation battle unless they improve significantly in the coming days. Sean Dyche’s men grabbed an edgy 1-0 win when these two sides locked horns in East London a year ago, but they must overcome last weekend’s setback against Southampton to avoid back-to-back defeats on the road.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 West Ham United Lineup To Face Everton
Defence
Alphonse Areola has lost his place after a run of poor performances. The Irons roped in Wes Foderingham in the summer, but the gaffer is expected to rely on 39-year-old Łukasz Fabiański who remains a viable option between the sticks.
Lopetegui’s ‘back three’ failed miserably against Forest. He should revert to a four-man backline with Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Emerson tipped to operate as fullbacks. The latter has replaced Aaron Cresswell down the left. Also, Wan-Bissaka, the summer recruit from Man United, has been preferred over Vladimir Coufal so far this season. Konstantinos Mavropanos and Max Kilman should pair up in the heart of the backline with Jean-Clair Todibo likely to be introduced as a second-half substitute.
Midfield
A marching order against Forest has ruled Edson Alvarez out of the Everton contest. Tomas Soucek could return to the starting XI after missing their trip to The City Ground due to illness and form a double pivot with Guido Rodriguez who should keep his place ahead of Andy Irving deep down the midfield.
Meanwhile, Lopetegui’s West Ham are experiencing an identity crisis in terms of philosophy and tactics. Creators like Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paqueta are struggling for form but should still feature from their respective right midfield and ‘number 10’ spots. The absence of Mohammed Kudus is a massive blow as the Ghanaian wideman remains suspended upon receiving a straight red against Tottenham Hotspur. The manager might opt for Carlos Soler on the left as the Spanish midfield ace could be deployed flexibly in various formations. Crysencio Summerville might play his part as a ‘super sub’ against tired legs.
Attack
Niclas Fullkrug is sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury which leaves West Ham with Michail Antonio and Danny Ings as the outright ‘number 9’ options. Although Ings is hailed for his poaching traits, Antonio’s movements and physical presence make him a better fit high up the pitch.
