Mohammed Kudus decision made – Confirmed West Ham United XI v Aston Villa
West Ham have confirmed their starting XI for their Premier League meeting with Aston Villa on Sunday (22 October).
Manager David Moyes has made no changes from the team that drew 2-2 with Newcastle United at the beginning of October.
The Hammers travel to Villa Park for the encounter, which is the first match back for both clubs after the recent international break.
Alphonse Areola unsurprisingly keeps his place between the sticks, with central defensive duo Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd once again operating in front of him. Full-backs Vladimir Coufal and Emerson meanwhile continue at right-back and left-back respectively.
In midfield, summer signings James Ward-Prowse and Edson Alvarez keep their places, with Jarrod Bowen, Tomas Soucek and Lucas Paqueta also entrusted from the start by Moyes.
And leading the line once again is Michail Antonio, who will be keen to add to his tally of two Premier League goals this season.
Tough test
This is certain to be a very tough test for the Hammers, although they do boast a good record against the Midlands club over recent years. The hosts are, however, looking strong at home, and have made Villa Park a fortress since Unai Emery took over.
The Spaniard will have his side well-drilled to deal with West Ham’s counters, but the likes of Bowen and Antonio will be keen to disrupt that plan from the very first whistle.
Both players were involved for their respective nations over the international break, as was the case for many of their teammates and many of their opponents.
And that could play a major role in the outcome of the meeting at Villa Park, with fatigue certain to take its toll on several players as the match goes on.
Villa Park, however, should be in full voice, with fans glad to see the return of club football after the international break.
In other West Ham news, one Hammers-linked player is weighing up offers, with a European giant “leading the charge” for his signature.