In a strategic move to reinforce their midfield, West Ham United has secured two significant signings.
James Ward-Prowse, with a completed £30 million transfer, has joined the club after Southampton’s relegation.
This acquisition follows closely on the heels of Edson Alvarez’s arrival from Ajax for £32 million.
The signings come as David Moyes aims to strengthen his midfield, especially in the wake of Declan Rice’s departure to Arsenal.
While Alvarez’s integration into the team was slowed by his international commitments during the summer, where he represented Mexico in the Gold Cup, Moyes has highlighted that he is gradually building up his fitness levels.
Consequently, Moyes anticipates that Alvarez will likely start on the bench during the upcoming weekend.
In contrast, Ward-Prowse is in a more advanced state of readiness.
He had the advantage of a full pre-season and even participated in Southampton’s opening game of the Championship campaign earlier this month.
Moyes confirmed that Alvarez had returned to training just last week, having missed three weeks of training due to international duties.
In contrast, Ward-Prowse has been consistently training with Southampton and has already seen game time, making him better prepared for immediate involvement.
As the team approaches its next match, Moyes is presented with a fully-fit squad.
It’s anticipated that Ward-Prowse’s inclusion will be the only alteration to the lineup that started the previous weekend’s 1-1 draw against Bournemouth.
The predicted starting lineup for West Ham, utilizing a 4-3-3 formation, is as follows:
West Ham Predicted XI (4-3-3):
– Areola; Coufal, Zouma, Aguerd, Emerson
– Ward-Prowse, Soucek, Paqueta
– Bowen, Antonio, Benrahma
Injured: None
Doubts: None
Suspended: None
The upcoming match is scheduled for Sunday, August 20, 2023, at 4:30pm BST and will take place at the London Stadium.
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