Midfielder Mateus Fernandes is in a race to return to Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad in time to face Leeds United, who visit West Ham in Sunday’s FA Cup match.
The 21-year-old is on international duty with Portugal, having been called up to the senior squad by Roberto Martinez for the first time. Fernandes is in the US for a double-header and does not kick off their second match until 12am UK time on Wednesday.
Fernandes did not feature in Friday’s 0-0 draw with Mexico but is expected to be selected to feature against the USA. Boss Martinez said: “I want to give all the players a chance”, indicating a debut is on the cards for Fernandes.
Race against time for Hammers midfielder
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What will then follow is a rush home where, presumably, Fernandes will fly straight to England on Thursday. West Ham then play [Leeds United](https://www.claretandhugh.info/leeds-united-bio/) at 4:30pm on Sunday, hopefully giving the midfielder plenty of time to recover from jet lag.
All fingers will be crossed that Fernandes comes through the match unscathed although it remains to be seen if Nuno selects his first team for the clash or rotates.