Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Tue 24 March 2026 12:55, UK

West Ham United have plenty of players away on international duty, and there are many with quite a lot to gain, including captain Jarrod Bowen.

With the World Cup just months away, there are still spots up for grabs, with quite a few Hammers stars set to feature in the upcoming play-offs.

Additionally, for those called up for international friendlies, it will be a chance for them to impress their national team manager and secure their place on the plane.

At West Ham Zone, we are looking at those that have the most to gain from this international break, including six Hammers players.

Hopefully, positive results over the break could translate into improved performances for the rest of West Ham’s season.

Four West Ham players fighting for World Cup qualification

Over this international break, there are four West Ham stars that are fighting for their World Cup qualification.

Mads Hermansen, Tomas Soucek, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and loanee Callum Marshall could all still make it to the North American tournament.

Hermansen could be in line for his debut for Denmark with both Filip Jorgenson and Kasper Schmeichel ruled out of the upcoming play-offs.

All three shot-stoppers called up for the Danes did not feature at all during the recent World Cup qualifying group stages. However, Hermansen was named in those squads.

A tie between the Hammers’ number one and Soucek could be on the cards, as they can meet in the final of that play-off path.

Wan-Bissaka has another shot at qualification in the FIFA intercontinental play-off against New Caledonia or Jamaica.

While loanee Marshall has been named in Northern Ireland’s squad for their play-off against Italy.

Two West Ham players fighting for World Cup call-up

When it comes to players from nations already qualified, this could be the last time they have to impress their international manager.

Bowen and Mateus Fernandes are the two fringe players on the international stage fighting for their World Cup dreams.

The Irons’ captain will have the chance to show Thomas Tuchel his qualities in friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. The 29-year-old started just twice in the qualifying campaign.

Additionally, Mateus Fernandes has received his first call-up for Portugal.

Friendlies against World Cup hosts Mexico and the United States of America could define his chances of competing at this summer’s tournament.

There is certainly plenty on the line for many of the West Ham squad, and while Nuno will be wishing them all the best, he will also be hoping they come back with full fitness, with a crucial stage of the season around the corner.