Ollie Scarles playing for West Ham and Nuno Espirito Santo looking annoyed
Ollie Scarles and Nuno Espirito SantoImago

Ollie Scarles given make or break spell at West Ham as Nuno sets out plan

Max Wilkins

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior sports journalist with experience at GRV Media and VAVEL; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Exclusive content, statistical analysis, and deep-dive reporting across the Breaking Media network. THE INSIGHT Max utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, exclusive reporting and data-driven insight. He provides the intelligence behind the stories to ensure fans get the full picture.

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Ollie Scarles must now prove himself at West Ham United.

The left-back has had his fair share of struggles in claret and blue so far this season.

There was a hope that he would take the Championship by storm and be a true star for the Hammers.

He has been a regular, but the 20-year-old hasn't exactly set the second tier by storm.

Many fans at the London Stadium have been left frustrated by what they've seen from his performances.

That has seen Scarles left out by Nuno Espirito Santo recently, but he now faces a chance to prove himself at Rush Green.

Nuno Espirito Santo international break demands set at West Ham

The Irons may be sitting second in the Championship, but standards can't afford to drop.

That will always be difficult to avoid as an extended three week international break is upon us.

It appears that Nuno has things under control for those sticking around in East London.

Claret and Hugh reported on Wednesday that a behind-closed-doors friendly has been set up for next week at Rush Green.

That will come after several days off and a period of rest for the Hammers squad.

The opposition is not yet known, but will serve as a chance for players to maintain their match fitness and sharpness.

It will also give many stars a chance to prove their ability to Nuno, with Scarles needing that opportunity as much as anyone.

Ollie Scarles playing for West Ham and Nuno Espirito Santo looking annoyed
Manor Solomon among three West Ham players who have a point to prove during the international break

What does the future hold for Ollie Scarles?

The fact that the defender was unused substitute against Millwall, having also played just seven minutes against Fulham, speaks volumes.

He hasn't started since 8 September and has made just two appearances.

Nuno has begun to favour summer signing Morato at left-back, despite him being a centre-back by trade.

That isn't a good look for Scarles and something he will be keen to change.

A friendly at Rush Green is the perfect chance as he looks to force himself into the starting XI thinking.

His performances will have to be at a top level as he looks to prove a point.

The proof will be in the pudding should he feature in the next Championship outing against QPR.

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