West Ham travel to Manchester United in the third round of the EFL Cup on Wednesday, as manager David Moyes and his team look to seek vengeance after Sunday’s defeat.
Following the Hammers’ 2-1 loss to the Red Devils at the weekend, the squad will travel to Manchester to face Cristiano Ronaldo’s United for the second time in just four days.
Last season saw West Ham bow out of the competition in the round of 16 stage at the hands of Everton, but the club will now focus on progressing further this time out.
In preparation for the match, we take a look at who Moyes could place in his starting lineup on Wednesday – with a couple of new faces likely to make their first appearances.
GK: Alphonse Areola
On-loan goalkeeper Areola could be set to make his competitive debut for West Ham on Wednesday, as Moyes is likely to rest Fabianski for the weekend.
RB: Ryan Fredericks
After impressing in West Ham’s 2-0 win over Dinamo Zagreb last week, Fredericks could start again against United, giving Vladimir Coufal time to rest for the Premier League.
CB: Kurt Zouma
New Hammers signing Kurt Zouma has instantly made an impact for the team since joining, and his place in the squad should not differ this week.
CB: Angelo Ogbonna
Partnering with Zouma, Ogbonna should start against United. Moyes could field a strong defence and Ogbonna is certainly the man to help lead it.
LB: Aaron Cresswell
Creswell may retain his place in the starting lineup against the Red Devils and, as usual, his defensive work rate and crossing abilities will be key in the match.
CDM: Declan Rice
On-field captain Declan Rice is playing out of his skin at the moment. After performing well on Sunday, he should keep his place in the starting lineup.
CDM: Alex Kral
New summer loan signing Alex Kral could make his West Ham debut on Wednesday, replacing fellow international teammate Tomas Soucek in the midfield to give him a rest.
RM: Jarrod Bowen
As one of West Ham’s vital attacking threats, Jarrod Bowen could start the match against United. He will look to add to his assist on Sunday by helping the team progress into the next round.
CAM: Nikola Vlasic
Despite still finding his feet in London, summer arrival Nikola Vlasic could keep his spot in the starting lineup this week. The Croatian hasn’t heavily impressed so far but Moyes will likely change from Benrahma for this game.
LM: Pablo Fornals
Fan favourite Pablo Fornals will look to get back to form against the Red Devils. Fornals has been playing excellently this season and will be determined to get back to winning ways.
ST: Michail Antonio
Hopefully, West Ham will see the return of Michail Antonio to the starting lineup this week after he missed Sunday’s match through suspension. His good scoring form will be a big boost for Moyes and his side.