Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Sun 5 April 2026 10:55, UK

Keiber Lamadrid may be in line for a shock start for West Ham United against Leeds in the FA Cup.

The Venezuelan, who is currently on a loan contract in E20, has barely featured under Nuno Espirito Santo, with a potential appearance against Leeds his second in claret and blue.

The Hammers have an option to make the winger’s deal permanent, but as it stands, they have been able to see little of him in action.

That could now all change, as Lamadrid’s social media activity has hinted towards a potential start against Daniel Farke’s Leeds on Sunday.

Ahead of West Ham’s FA Cup quarter-final, it would certainly be quite the decision by manager Nuno.

How did Keiber Lamadrid hint at West Ham start?

Lamadrid has only featured once before for the West Ham senior team, with the 22-year-old starting against Burton Albion in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

If the winger’s story is anything to go by, a start against Leeds United would certainly be a step up for the South American.

He posted a graphic on his Instagram, showcasing the attacker in the West Ham kit with details of the Leeds match included.

Putting an inexperienced player such as Lamadrid into an FA Cup quarter-final would be a shock.

It does remain to be seen if he starts, but either way, the mere posting of the graphic ahead of this FA Cup tie at the very least suggests he will be in the squad.

It could turn out to be a shrewd decision by Nuno or one that ultimately backfires with a trip to Wembley on the line.

Lamadrid’s involvement may signal Crysencio Summerville not yet ready

With doubts surrounding Crysencio Summerville’s involvement, the inclusion of the Venezuelan in the squad could show that the Dutchman has not passed his late fitness test.

Without the 24-year-old, Nuno is short of wingers, and in that case, Lamadrid’s involvement would make total sense.

Summerville has been exceptional for the Irons, but without his availability, it only leaves Jarrod Bowen, Lamadrid and Adama Traore as options.

If the Venezuelan features from the off and Traore is benched, it would also be quite telling of the Spaniard’s future too.

Summerville could even be fit, but saving him for the Premier League relegation fight could be the smart choice by Nuno and his staff.

Traore’s future at West Ham looks uncertain after a lack of minutes so far in East London. Being snubbed for a player with just one prior appearance could be the final nail in the coffin for his Hammers career.