Two players that have earned the right to start for West Ham at Watford

It’s early in the English Premier League season for West Ham United, but already you can start to see who is earning their way. For the Hammers, there are two players, in general, that have earned their right to play this weekend at Watford.

I think it’s clear to say that the vote is still out on most of the West Ham squad as far as who is locked in besides maybe Rice, Fabs, and Lanzini. However, there are two players that have earned their right. Those players, Arthur Masuaku and Michail Antonio.

Related Story. Will we see changes for West Ham v Watford?. light

Now before you throw your computer away or close this article stick with me for a few hundred words. Both Masuaku and Antonio have averaged right around 90 minutes each this season and only Masuaku has gotten a run out as a starter but this weekend at Watford, they both have earned a name on that first team sheet.

Locked up at Left Back

More from Green Street Hammers - West Ham

If there has been one position that has had more contention than any this offseason it would be that of the left-back. West Ham fans are torn between the two club veterans, Aaron Cresswell and the before mentioned Masuaku. Cress got a run out most of the preseason and did the same for week 1 against City all while wearing the armband.

That didn’t work out so well for him against the defending league champions and it gave Arthur a chance to prove himself to Pellegrini. Last week against Brighton Masuaku played a solid match, not lights out but solid. I could pick from about 3 or 4 plays where he did something safe or right that unfortunately, Cress would’ve done the opposite.

Right side, Strongside

The Hammers midfield is packed but also, they have not gelled as a unit. Preseason showed some hope but since the EPL started, there hasn’t been much to write home about besides Rice and Lanzini, both in the center. Coming off the bench at the half in both matches so far, Michail Antonio has proven to be a difference and deserves to start.

I think this weekend we either see a 4-1-4-1 or a 4-3-3 formation, either way, Antonio could fit in on that right side. With Haller and Anderson back the right side would fall to either Fornals, Yarmolenko, or Snodgrass. Common sense and game film have told me that Fornals isn’t ready yet and Antonio should get the nod. If not only due to last week’s assist but how he played last time out at Vicarage Road getting 2 assists and forcing a penalty.

Next. West Ham get injury help. dark

Overall, both Masuaku and Antonio might not be the best options but for the form and scenario, they are and they have earned that right for at least another week.