4th December 2025 Daniel Luker (@danielluker_)
By Conor Hogan
With Summerville injured and Paquetá suspended, West Ham have a dilemma in attack, specifically on the left wing.
The Hammers face Manchester United in the Premier League tonight in what is a crucial game in the Hammers’ season.
After wins for Leeds and Nottingham Forest last night, it is vital that Nuno Espírito Santo’s side come back from Old Trafford with at least a point.
Lucas Paquetà is suspended following his dismissal against Liverpool on Sunday, but the Hammers should have an adequate replacement in Tomáš Souček or Soungoutou Magassa.
However, in the continued absence of the injured Crysencio Summerville, the Irons still face a dilemma on the left wing. Mateus Fernandes was deployed there against Liverpool, but looked far more comfortable in central midfield.
Given Paquetà’s absence, Fernandes should play centrally again on Thursday night, but Nuno must decide who takes up the role on the Hammers’ left.
Luis Guilherme had a promising 25-minute cameo against the Reds last weekend. The Brazilian teenager showed speed and skill on the ball but, as ever, his end product was lacking.
Kyle Walker-Peters is another option, having been used there occasionally this season. The 28-year-old has performed well in that role, but could be seen as a more conservative choice in a game where West Ham could feasibly take all three points.
Other options include Callum Marshall and George Earthy — Academy products who would inject energy into this West Ham side. Both were left out of the Irons’ youth side that lost to Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday night, which suggests they may be in Nuno’s squad at Old Trafford.
Though starting Earthy or Marshall on the left would be a risk, it may be less of a gamble — and offer more potential reward — than playing Guilherme. Both Academy players offer intelligent movement off the ball and more composure in possession, and either could provide a refreshing dynamic.
Alternatively, although unlikely, Nuno could choose to play Walker-Peters at full-back and move El Hadji Malick Diouf further forward. The 20-year-old’s pace and crossing ability would offer real threat in the final third, and Walker-Peters is more naturally suited to the full-back role than the Senegalese international.
Thursday’s game is huge for West Ham’s season. Hopefully, Nuno will make the right call. Kick-off at Old Trafford is at 8pm.