A familiar face returns to the Hammers starting line-up, with Adrian replacing Joe Hart. who naturally is ineligible against his parent side. Adrian now has a first class opportunity to impress, will he snatch it with both hands and could that mean trouble for Hart?
In defence, Byram, Collins and Reid are on the injury list. Although Reid is subject to a late injury test prior to the match. If Reid is not successful in proving his fitness, Ogbonna could partner with Kouyate and/or Rice in central defence. The selection is largely down to whether David Moyes goes with a flat back four (his apparent preference) or three centre-backs and two wing-backs.
The midfield selection could see Noble and/or Fernandes in midfield, along with Lanzini. Again, factor x is whether Obiang is retained or benched? Both Antonio and Arnautovic are thought to be fit, but it is unclear whether they will both start? Ayew is also fit, but may find himself starting on the bench today. Similiarly, up front both Carroll and Hernandez are thought to be struggling for fitness. As such, it is more likely Sakho will lead the forward line.
Whatever the final selection, the players must show pride in the shirt and, equally important, pride in themselves as professional footballers. And the Hammers crowd at Man City need to both make their expectations clear and really get behind the team. We showed at the LS vs Leicester City how we can inspire the players to improve performance and the away crowd need to try and do the same here. If we lose, we lose (Man City are currently the finest side in English football, that is perfectly clear), but the Hammers side need to show grit, put up a good display and fight them right to the final whistle!
SJ. Chandos.