West Ham manager Manuel Pellergrini has revealed that the Hammers might have to make do without the services of captain Mark Noble for Saturday’s London Derby with Arsenal.
“In this week, we just have the three players who will continue to be injured for a couple of months more and Mark Noble has a problem with his back that means he couldn’t work,” Pellegrini told pre-match presser in London.
The three long-term casualties are forward Andy Caroll, winger Manuel Lanzini and defender Winston Reid.
While Pellegrini didn’t completely rule out Noble from their short trip to the Emirates Stadium, the 31-year-old is facing a race against time to be fit with little over 24 hours to go before kickoff
A product of the Hammers’ youth academy, Noble has been at the club since 2000 and has made over 400 appearances for the Irons.
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In his absence, Carlos Sanchez could get the nod to partner former Gunner Jack Wilshere in the heart of midfield against the North Londoners.
Despite splurging on a number of high-profile signings in the summer and hiring a proven manger like Pellegrini, the Hammers have struggled this season.
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They were swamped 4-0 by a rampant Liverpool side in their opening fixture at Anfield and they let a 1-0 lead slip to eventually lose 1-2 against Bournemouth on the weekend to remain winless.
Considering the Gunners have lost their opening two fixtures as well will give the Irons hope that they can come away from the Emirates with a point at the very least.
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The match kicks off at 1930 IST.