Lucas Paqueta returns as Nuno left with no choice elsewhere – West Ham predicted XI vs Liverpool
Lucas Paqueta is set to make a return to West Ham’s starting XI to face Liverpool after serving a one-match suspension.
The Brazil international was absent in West Ham’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth last time out in the Premier League, but is poised to make a return against the Reds on Sunday.
Nuno Espirito Santo wants to keep West Ham up, and the Hammers have a chance to extend a three-game unbeaten streak against the defending champions.
West Ham know how important Paqueta is, but Nuno faces one major issue in a key area that even a struggling Liverpool may take advantage of.
Nuno has no choice in defence vs Liverpool
Konstantinos Mavropanos is injured with a hamstring problem and is a doubt for the match, with Nuno most likely to deploy a five at the back formation once again.
The problem isn’t the wing-backs, it’s the centre-backs, and Igor Julio failed to make a real positive impact against the Cherries in his first start for West Ham in the previous Premier League clash.
| Minutes | Goals conceded | Tackles | Possession lost | Aerial duels (won) | Blocked shots | Rating |
| 90 | 2 | 0 | 8 | 1 (0) | 2 | 6.3 |
Max Kilman has continued to struggle, while Jean-Clair Todibo still has work to do to win over the Irons’ supporters
However, Callum Wilson is fire for West Ham, Paqueta’s return will only add more firepower to Nuno’s attack.
The Hammers have scored eight goals in their last three matches, and a leaky Liverpool defence could be in for another tough night if West Ham get it right.
Nuno doesn’t need to fix much, but he may need to drop Mateus Fernandes, despite his good performances, to play Tomas Soucek, who can break up Liverpool’s attacking movement.
Unfortunately for the head coach, he has no other option but to play his only three fit centre-backs, with a back five the most obvious path to victory in this one.
- Read more: Callum Wilson tops Premier League summer signings chart despite what West Ham did to get him
Liverpool on nine-game run without defeat vs West Ham
The Hammers could be meeting Liverpool at the perfect time in the season.
West Ham will always fear coming up against the Reds in the league, and with reason, but this time there should be nothing to fear.
Liverpool haven’t lost against the Irons for nine games, winning eight of them, but that run could soon be ended by Nuno and his improving side.
The London Stadium is gaining positivity once again, and with Arne Slot under pressure, West Ham could further propel themselves up the league standings.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest West Ham United news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @westhamzone247