West Ham United team news as sources share David Moyes update
West Ham face the possibility of being without summer signing Edson Alvarez for their next two fixtures due to an ongoing illness, according to Claret & Hugh.
The news website reported on Tuesday [12 December] that there is uncertainty over the Mexican’s involvement against Freiburg in the Europa League and Wolves on Sunday 17 December.
Despite the absences, sources have told the website that David Moyes will need to play his strongest available side as the Germans come to town.
Massive miss
Alvarez has been a huge boost to West Ham since the summer, with Declan Rice departing from the London Stadium for a record fee allowing the club to pay for him and James Ward-Prowse from Southampton.
The 26-year-old has done a fine job in midfield, starting 12 of the Hammers’ 16 league games and helping the London club to the top of Group A in the Europa League.
Against Fulham, Moyes’ hand was forced, having to deploy Pablo Fornals on the wing with Lucas Paqueta moving into the middle.
Without Alvarez, a central midfield of Tomas Soucek and Ward-Prowse was unable to cope with the Cottagers, especially with the technical ability and fierceness of Joao Palhinha.
West Ham may face a similar issue in a key fixture against Freiburg and a battle with Wolves at the weekend. The midfield pairing of Joao Gomes and Mario Lemina could be vital in stopping the West Ham midfield without Alvarez.
Whether he is ready to face either of the teams or not, Moyes and his team will need to put on a much better display than the embarrassment at Craven Cottage.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers want to sign one “breakout” ace, with a 2024 transfer on the cards for the player.