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West Ham’s Predicted Starting XI for Wimbledon Away

By Adam Smith

HIGH WYCOMBE, ENGLAND - JULY 14: Nathan Holland of West Ham runs during the pre-season friendly match between Wycombe Wanderers and West Ham United at Adams Park on July 14, 2018 in High Wycombe, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
HIGH WYCOMBE, ENGLAND - JULY 14: Nathan Holland of West Ham runs during the pre-season friendly match between Wycombe Wanderers and West Ham United at Adams Park on July 14, 2018 in High Wycombe, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) /
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West Ham drew AFC Wimbledon away for their first match in the Carabao Cup. With all eyes on Pellegrini after a slow but progressing start to the season how will the Hammers line up against the League 1 side?

All belief is that West Ham will put forward strong teams in the Cups this season, using the matches to try out some youngsters in teams that are heavy with senior level talent. A top-six spot in the table was going to be tough this season (even before an 0-0-3 start) but serious Cup runs provide Pellegrini and West Ham a way to show their mettle outside of league play.

In his post-match interview with Sam Inkersole, Manuel Pellegrini tipped his hand as far as tactics are concerned for the squad moving forward. Reluctant to change this early in the season, Pellegrini stated: “It is a style that this team will continue to play in the future and I am absolutely sure and I hope that the fans also continue to support because the team is in the current way and we are going to win more than we lose.” Strong attacking intent and a sticktoitiveness from the manager, I like it.

So tactics aside how can we expect the Hammers to line up against AFC Wimbledon in this week’s Carabao Cup match?

Adrian
Zabaleta – Diop – Ogbonna – Cresswell

Obiang – Rice

Yarmolenko – Anderson – Holland

Perez

That would be my team for the match. The introduction of former senior team starters in Adrian, Zabaleta, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Rice, and Obiang would get them some solid game time and keep their match form up should they need to be called upon in the near future. Rice deserves to be back in the team and hopefully, a dominant performance from the future captain will cement his place back in the senior Premier League squad.

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As well I believe we will see debut starts for Yarmolenko and Perez in this match. Both have been used as late game substitutions, however, it’s clear that Pellegrini would like them to be more involved in the future, and this Cup match will allow for an extended look at the possible starters.

We do see the introduction of Cullen and Holland as youth players getting involved in the match. As all but confirmed from ExWHUEmployee that Pellegrini will bring Josh Cullen and Nathan Holland with him to the match, but likely in different ways. Holland has done nothing but impress in his time with West Ham so a starting position is warranted. Cullen has struggled when presented with an opportunity and should see time, just as a sub though.

Believe it or not Carlos Sanchez is West Ham’s man in midfield. dark. Next

There it is, West Ham’s possible starting lineup for Wimbledon away in the Carabao Cup. Balanced, strong, and most importantly a side that shows Pellegrini and West Ham are all in for the competition.