Lopetegui’s Ruthless Call: Fullkrug Axed as West Ham Boss Plots Four Changes for Southampton Clash
Julen Lopetegui is set to shake things up at West Ham, with four predicted changes to his starting XI for the Boxing Day showdown against Southampton.
Niclas Fullkrug is expected to be one of the casualties, as the Spaniard considers dropping the forward after his half-time substitution in the 1-1 draw with Brighton.
Lopetegui’s Bold Overhaul: Paqueta Out, Fullkrug Dropped – Four Fresh Faces Tipped for West Ham XI v Southampton
West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui is gearing up for a Boxing Day reshuffle, with Lucas Paqueta ruled out through suspension after accumulating five yellow cards.
Following underwhelming defensive displays from Emerson and Konstantinos Mavropanos, changes are on the horizon. Jean-Clair Todibo, Vladimir Coufal, Carlos Soler, and Crysencio Summerville are all in contention to step into the starting XI for the crucial clash against Southampton.
Lopetegui to Axe Mavropanos: West Ham Line-Up Shake-Up for Southampton Showdown
Julen Lopetegui is set to drop Konstantinos Mavropanos as part of a defensive reshuffle ahead of West Ham’s Boxing Day clash with Southampton.
Despite the changes, veteran goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski is expected to keep his spot in goal, aiming to secure his third clean sheet of the season.
Defensive Overhaul: Lopetegui Set to Drop Mavropanos and Emerson for Southampton Clash
Julen Lopetegui is poised to make two key changes to West Ham’s back line, with Jean-Clair Todibo and Vladimir Coufal expected to replace Konstantinos Mavropanos and Emerson.
Mavropanos, who was subbed off at half-time last weekend, could make way as the manager looks to tighten up defensively against a dangerous Southampton attack.
Midfield Stability: Alvarez and Soucek to Start as West Ham Eyes Kudus Impact Amid Transfer Talk
Edson Alvarez and Tomas Soucek are expected to hold their spots in West Ham’s midfield, tasked with controlling the game against Southampton.
Meanwhile, Mohammed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen remain likely starters, with both continuing to shine this season. With Kudus linked to a January transfer move, the Hammers will be eager to make the most of his talents for as long as they can.
Lopetegui Eyes Fresh Faces: Summerville and Soler to Step Up as West Ham Targets Crucial Win
With Lucas Paqueta suspended after his weekend booking, Crysencio Summerville could seize the opportunity to prove himself in West Ham’s clash with Southampton. The 23-year-old will look to make an impact after a slow start in East London.
Niclas Fullkrug is also tipped to be replaced, with Carlos Soler stepping in and Jarrod Bowen pushing forward into the striker role.
As Lopetegui seeks to strengthen his support at The London Stadium, Thursday’s match presents a golden opportunity for the Hammers to secure a decisive win and build momentum.