Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 6 April 2026 9:40, UK

Mohamadou Kante will fancy his chances to start against Wolves after West Ham United’s midfield failed to impress against Leeds in the FA Cup.

Nuno Espirito Santo started Freddie Potts and Soungoutou Magassa in a double pivot with Mateus Fernandes positioned behind the striker.

While the Portuguese was efficient with his play, notching the first of the Hammers’ two late goals, the pairing behind him left plenty to be desired.

The Irons manager seemingly agrees with both Potts and Magassa being substituted at half-time.

Now, as West Ham prepare for Wolves, Nuno will have plenty to think about with Kante making a strong case to start despite his limited cameo against Leeds.

How did Mohamdou Kante boost his chance to start for West Ham?

The FA Cup exit to Leeds was a huge opportunity missed, and losing on penalties after completing a sensational added-time comeback will hurt.

However, for a few in the West Ham squad, they would have diminished their reputation in the pecking order.

Potts and Magassa will certainly fear what their early withdrawal means for their immediate futures, with Kante assuredly looking on with wide eyes.

Kante was afforded just 15 minutes to try to make a difference, and while it was ultimately too little time to do so, he did put a strong foot forward.

The 20-year-old battled hard, winning four out of five ground duels. He also completed his only tackle attempted, as per Sofascore.

Kante also showed bravery by completing both of his attempted dribbles. While his 57 per cent pass accuracy may look bad on paper, three of those misplaced passes came from looking to create chances outside of Leeds’ box.

It was a short cameo for Kante, but one that certainly provided Nuno with a selection headache.

How previous result vs Wolves will help Kante’s chances

Another positive omen for a Kante start against Wolves is the fact that the midfield duo of Potts and Magassa were also woeful in the reverse fixture against the Old Gold.

The Hammers fell to a 3-0 defeat back in January, with the two aforementioned midfielders being taken off at half-time on that occasion as well.

When analysing their upcoming opponents, Nuno could look to try to avoid his previous selection mistakes, offering hope to Kante.

It certainly would not be the worst idea to hand Kante a start, which would be his first in the Premier League this season.

Kante may not be the only star getting a first Premier League start for the E20 outfit, with Adama Traore also impressing against Leeds.