With the Carabao Cup match tonight David Moyes has a tricky choice. Does he rest West Ham’s key players, or go for the win?
Around Christmas Premier League managers start to run into real selection issues. Fixture congestion and the end result of European competitions are starting to take their toll, and for 8 teams there is also the Carabao Cup fixtures. Midweek, usually against strong opposition, it’s not an idea extra match. West Ham need to be careful.
When teams are sitting in mid-table, or have a deep squad, these competitions are a great chance for silverware. In the Hammers’ situation, sitting just above the relegation zone, these could well be a distraction. Injury issues, fitness and young players are all extra considerations for Moyes tonight.
More from Green Street Hammers - West Ham
- Brighton vs West Ham predictions: Can James Ward-Prowse help end the curse?
- West Ham and two Premier League rivals made huge transfer stand
- Lucas Paqueta bet allegations discussed in West Ham and Man City transfer talks
- Bournemouth vs West Ham predictions: Premier League opener amid transfer chaos
- West Ham near Denis Zakaria transfer after final James Ward-Prowse bid
He will take on Wenger for the second time in quick succession, having played out a 0-0 draw at home last week. Now Moyes will need to try and get a positive result away from home, without damaging the squad ahead of a home game against Newcastle in the Premier League.
Noble is already out through a knock, Lanzini is banned and it is unlikely Antonio or Arnautovic will be risked. Key players in midfield and defence should also be given the night off. Hart is set to rotate in goal, but the defense in front of him is up for debate. Some think the same defence should start, but Cresswell, Ogbonna and Zabaleta need rest. And keeping Masuaku fresh wouldn’t hurt either.
We have a good youth squad and I would hope it is drawn on heavily against Arsenal. Senior players Hernandez, Carroll and Ayew should also be considered as getting them to full match fitness for the hectic Christmas schedule is imperative if the Hammers are to thrive. It could also be a wonderful stage for Martinez or Haksabanovic to show their skills.
Next: 5 points from West Ham v Arsenal
Moyes will have a difficult decision, but the Newcastle match is more important. If you offered be a loss tonight and a win at the weekend I would take it instantly. We will not remember this fixture if we survive the Premier League. But a Carabao Cup run will not comfort me in the Championship next year, and Moyes knows that’s the truth.