West Ham United face a challenging test as they prepare to host Arsenal in a high-stakes Premier League clash at the London Stadium on Saturday. The Hammers are sweating on the fitness of key defender Jean-Clair Todibo, who sustained a knock during their recent 2-0 victory over Newcastle.
Manager Julen Lopetegui, who is set to serve a touchline ban for this match due to accumulating his third yellow card of the season, confirmed that the squad faces “two or three” fitness concerns heading into the London derby. Todibo’s availability remains uncertain, and a final decision will be made on Friday morning. Should he fail to recover, former Arsenal player Dinos Mavropanos is expected to step in at the heart of West Ham’s defense.
Adding to West Ham’s challenges, Mohamed Kudus will miss the game as he serves the last match of his five-game suspension. However, there is some good news for the Hammers, as Edson Alvarez is set to return after completing his two-match ban. Meanwhile, Niclas Fullkrug remains sidelined with a persistent calf injury.
The midfield battle will be crucial, with Tomas Soucek likely anchoring the center while the creative trio of Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paquetá, and Carlos Soler aim to unlock Arsenal’s defense. Up front, Michail Antonio will shoulder the attacking responsibilities.
West Ham Predicted XI
Goalkeeper: Fabianski
Defenders: Wan-Bissaka, Todibo (or Mavropanos), Kilman, Emerson
Midfield: Soucek; Bowen, Paquetá, Soler, Summerville
Forward: Antonio
Doubtful: Jean-Clair Todibo
Injured: Niclas Fullkrug
Suspended: Julen Lopetegui (touchline ban), Mohamed Kudus
Match Details
- Date and Time: Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 5:30 PM GMT
- Venue: London Stadium, London
- Broadcast: Live on Sky Sports
Arsenal, who are chasing a top-four finish, will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge, but West Ham will be determined to make their mark in this pivotal fixture.
