West Ham suffer massive Lucas Paqueta blow ahead of crucial Wolves showdown
Nuno Espirito Santo may be without Lucas Paqueta for West Ham’s clash with Wolves on Saturday.
Paqueta was excellent in West Ham’s 2-2 draw with Brighton, despite giving away a penalty in the first half of the contest.
Paqueta was a doubt for the encounter against Nuno‘s former side, which is a relegation six-pointer, given both teams’ troubles this season.
A new update on his back problem has emerged, and it is very concerning for Hammers supporters.
Will Lucas Paqueta play for West Ham against Wolves?
West Ham need to win against Wolves, and their chances may have been hampered by a massive update on the Brazilian.
Jacob Steinberg claimed on 3 January that Paqueta was a doubt to start the contest, and it is unlikely that he will play the full match.
Taking to X, he said: “Lucas Paqueta a major doubt to start for West Ham today.
“Awaiting team news, but every chance he won’t be able to play full game against Wolves.
“Big blow if they’re without him.”
- Read More: Premier League clubs to consider manager changes in January as Nuno hits crunch time at West Ham
How can West Ham cope with Paqueta absence?
If Paqueta does end up missing the contest, then Nuno may be forced to bring Crysencio Summerville back into the mix.
It will be a different dynamic for the Hammers if the ex-Leeds man is on the field instead of the 28-year-old.
He will provide more pace and urgency down the flanks, but lacks the creative flair and determination that Paqueta brings when he is at his best.
- Summerville has featured 34 times for the E20 outfit since joining from Leeds in 2024
- He has notched one goal and four assists in that time
- He has missed 27 matches through injury
The Irons need Summerville to come up with the goods, if he ends up playing, as they need to secure victory at all costs against the Old Gold.
Another option would be to give a debut to new addition Pablo, who the Hammers have confirmed is available to face Rob Edwards’ side.
However, that would be a risk, throwing the attacker in at the deep end, and it would also need a formation change, with the 21-year-old partnering Callum Wilson upfront.
It remains to be seen whether Paqueta makes it or not, but Nuno will be praying that he does, as it is an absolutely vital fixture.
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