WHZ Tactics: Striking options for West Ham in clash with Sheffield United
West Ham host bottom of the table Sheffield United in the Premier League on Monday evening.
The Hammers are looking to pick up three points after winning just once in their last three, as the race for the European places hots up.
Our visitors have been bottom of the table since November 7. They’re hit a green patch, having won six of their last nine in all competitions. This includes a 2-1 win at Old Trafford over Manchester United.
David Moyes has a mini-crisis up top at the moment. Michail Antonio is currently 50/50 to be fit for the clash, whilst ‘back-up’ option Andriy Yarmolenko limped off injured in the week. This comes after selling club record flop Sebastian Haller to Ajax in January, without a replacement.
West Ham Zone have explored the possible striking replacements for Monday’s clash should neither be fit.
Jesse Lingard
The loanee got off to a fantastic start for the Hammers with his two goals in our 3-1 win at Villa Park. But could Lingard be the answer to our striking woes?
Moyes seems to think he could be. The boss hinted at the chance of playing the England international in a false nine role. He’s played in World Cups and Champions Leagues, so definitely has the experience and maturity to adapt to a new role.
Lingard is hoping to push for a place in the England side at the Euros. He could welcome the chance to lead the line and add more goals to his tally.
Said Benrahma
Another good option is our Algerian number nine. He’s desperate to score his first goal for the Hammers, and Monday could be the perfect opportunity.
Last season with Brentford, Benrahma scored 17 league goals in the Championship as part of the formidable BMW front three, they got 58 between them in 2019/20.
He is capable of leading the line but has been deployed on the left-wing thus far under Moyes. A change of position could see him finally break his Hammers duck.
Mipo Odubeko
The 18-year-old should not be written off altogether following his performance against Manchester United in the week.
The youngster is highly rated by Moyes. He was actually one of the reasons why the Scot chose not to replace Haller in January. Coming on to face the likes of Maguire, Lindelof and co was always going to be a big ask.
He could feature again on Monday, and will certainly have a point to prove after being subbed off. We’re still expecting big things from him.
In other West Ham news, Diop looks set to start against Sheffield United.