Paqueta returns in three changes – West Ham predicted XI v Everton
West Ham are set to continue their pre-season on Wednesday when they face Everton.
The Hammers are currently on their US tour as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season.
West Ham’s first game in the States ended in a 2-1 loss to Manchester United, with Graham Potter now aiming to quickly bounce back from this defeat.
With the showdown against Everton quickly approaching, West Ham Zone has attempted to predict the starting XI for the match.
Lucas Paqueta to start v Everton
Lucas Paqueta has been in the spotlight in recent days amid the impending result of his FA investigation.
Reports indicate that Paqueta is going to be cleared of spot-fixing charges, and now Potter may be tempted to return the Brazilian to the starting XI.
Against the Toffees, Alphonse Areola is expected to remain in goal, with Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo staying as the centre-back pairing.
Kyle Walker-Peters will have to wait longer for his first West Ham start as Aaron Wan-Bissaka keeps his spot while Oliver Scarles comes in a left-back.
Into midfield, and James Ward-Prowse partners Alan Irving, who also comes into the starting XI.
On the wings, Jarrod Bowen starts on the right, with El Hadji Malick Diouf on the left, with Paqueta being utilised in the 10 role.
Up top, Niclas Fullkrug keeps his place despite rumours that West Ham are in talks with Callum Wilson over a potential move.
Paqueta needs a good pre-season to boost confidence
It is no secret that Paqueta was one of West Ham’s best players before the charges were presented by the FA.
Now that the midfielder looks set to be cleared, Potter must use the remaining matches of pre-season to try and recover his previous form.
| West Ham’s remaining pre-season matches | Date |
| West Ham vs Everton | 30 July |
| Bournemouth vs West Ham | 3 August |
| West Ham vs Lille | 9 August |
Paqueta could easily be the difference between a relegation battle and a top-half finish this season, and the manager has to try and utilise this.
Hopefully, the 27-year-old will start against Everton to help him get back to his best.
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