West Ham United fans can breathe a little easier these days as their team seems to be hitting its stride. After months of ups and downs, the Hammers have recently secured back-to-back victories, lifting them to 16th on the Premier League table. The team is gearing up for another important match against Leicester City this weekend, which could see them improve their position even more.
Preparing for the fixture, manager Graham Potter is set to make significant changes to the line-up from the previous match against Arsenal, one where the Hammers outperformed expectations. According to various sources, Potter is expected to implement a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing solid defense and swift counterattacks. Alphonse Areola will don the gloves once again as the team's goalkeeper, having had minimal action against Arsenal.
Defensively, West Ham hopes to bolster its backline, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka likely stepping up as right-back and Emerson Palmieri on the left. The center-back duo of Maximilian Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo is anticipated to feature prominently, showcasing the defensive shuffle aimed at curbing any threats posed by Leicester's attack.
Midfield will see the dynamic pairing of James Ward-Prowse and Tomas Soucek retain their roles, both players having excelled against Arsenal. They were instrumental not just defensively, but also providing transitional play and opportunities for their forwards. Ward-Prowse, particularly, has exhibited why he was brought to the club, controlling the tempo impressively.
Speaking of forwards, Jarrod Bowen will continue on the right flank, but some eyes will be on Carlos Soler, who is expected to take over the left wing position from Scarles. Mohammed Kudus, the star player from the Arsenal match, is also set to resume responsibilities as the attacking midfielder.
It's worth noting, though, the injury concerns plaguing the squad. Lucas Paqueta (ankle), Vladimir Coufal (hamstring), Michail Antonio (leg), along with Crysencio Summerville and Niclas Fullkrug (both hamstring) are sidelined and will not be available for selection this week.
Despite these challenges, the club's atmosphere is markedly positive following their recent successes. Potter’s management has shown noticeable improvements compared to prior performances under the previous regime. This turnaround is not just palpable on the pitch but also reflective off it, as players appear to enjoy their football once more. The change of coaching philosophy is recognized, and key players, like Aaron Cresswell, are experiencing moments of revival.
Cresswell, West Ham's longest-serving current player, has been under scrutiny for his diminishing form over the past two seasons. His defensive skills have often been questioned, but recent performances have brought hope for fans and management alike. Two standout matches against Arsenal and Leicester showed Cresswell's renewed energy and significant contributions. With impressive statistics showing how he made 136 touches, completed 90.4% of his passes, and secured key defensive contributions, he could potentially secure a contract extension for another year.
Potter is reportedly considering offering Cresswell this much-deserved extension, recognizing the defender's experience and newly invigorated form as assets during what looks like it could be another transitional phase for the club.
On the transfer front, there are murmurs of interest from other clubs circling around Tomas Soucek, who has been performing solidly during this campaign. West Ham’s Czech midfielder, currently contracted until June 2027, has caught the eye of rivals, with David Moyes aiming to keep him as part of the squad for the foreseeable future. Soucek has been described as having to potentially fend off competition to maintain his place, especially with the likelihood of younger players being brought through the ranks.
An uncertain future looms with Graham Potter needing to streamline his squad for both financial and strategic reasons. Existing players might see changes as younger talent is touted as being incorporated to retire some of the older wage burdens, like Soucek’s high earning potential. His commanding physicality and impressive goal scoring record make him highly valued at the London Stadium, meaning any prospective negotiations surrounding his potential departure will require careful deliberation.
Lastly, the Hammers have exhibited fantastic resilience, currently boasting confidence gained from their recent home win which saw them secure three points without conceding. Fans will be eager to see if the momentum will last against Leicester and beyond, especially with the competitive fixtures on the horizon.
West Ham's supporters remain vocal about their commitment as their club navigates what could be one of the most significant phases of its season. With the right adjustments, expert management, and contributions from pivotal players, the Hammers could safely transition from the edge of danger to the more secure waters above the relegation zone. The weekend’s match is set to be pivotal and one to watch as West Ham United continue to forge their path forward.