London Stadium - West Ham United
20th October 2025 Mark Carlaw (@markcarlaw)
West Ham tonight take on Brentford in what is a crucial game for Nuno Espirito Santo and his players as we look to get away from a full-scale relegation battle this season.
Nuno’s Hammers take on the Bee’s knowing victory will set the club up well as we begin a 4-game run of games in the Premier League which as seen as vital in getting the season up and running.
West Ham go into the crucial match with forward Niclas Fullkrug missing. The German has torn thigh muscles and is expected to be out for 1-3 weeks. This means the new boss in his first home league game will choose between Callum Wilson or Callum Marshall to lead his attack. Of course there is the option of playing Bowen or Paqueta up there too.
Tomas Soucek returns from a three match suspension and should return to the match day squad.
Brazilian defender Igor Julio who is on loan from Brighton is said to have impressed in training recently and could also be considered for his first West Ham start today. Todibo is also said to have been working hard to prove his worth.
The manager has been playing around with alternative players and positions during the two week international break, particularly with those who remained at the club and didn’t go on international duty. This could mean he will look to do something different with the team.
He has ready stated in an interview fringe players will be given the chance and today’s match could be the first time we see this put into practice .