Two players sidelined, key ace returns – David Moyes confirms West Ham team news v Watford
David Moyes has confirmed his West Ham team news ahead of the Premier League showdown with Watford.
The Scot is ‘hopeful’ Michail Antonio can play having had ‘a couple’ of training sessions after arriving back late from international duty with Jamaica.
Manuel Lanzini (Achilles) and Arthur Masuaku (Knee) are both set to miss out through injury.
Moyes said in his pre-Watford press conference: “Michail’s back. We had an injury to Lanzini and an injury to Arthur [Masuaku]. They’re both doing okay but Arthur’s going to see a specialist about his knee and Manu’s needing a bit of time with an Achilles injury.
“Michail’s returned and has done a couple of days so we’re hoping he’ll be available.”
Go time
The winter break came at the best possible time for the Hammers.
The players will be well rested and raring to go as we approach the business end of the season.
As expected, Moyes has gone very strong with every game a must win as the Hammers look to reap the rewards for such an impressive campaign so far.
It is a real shame Antonio wasn’t able to benefit from a two-week break, but the 31-year-old will be raring to go with the form he is in this season.
Moyes didn’t confirm or deny whether the striker would start but it is more than likely with the boss wanting to field his strongest team.
Thankfully there is no major injury news. Lanzini missing out is a hit but Pablo Fornals or Said Benrahma can provide cover in his absence.
Strangely there was no mention of Kurt Zouma from Moyes but he is expected to start with the centre back declaring himself fit.
West Ham are able to field a very strong XI which is vital with every game from now until the end of the season is a must win.
In other Hammers news, View: West Ham must be cautious with Kurt Zouma.