West Ham United will face Liverpool at the London Stadium on Sunday, and manager Julen Lopetegui is dealing with several injury and suspension issues. The Irons managed a 1-0 victory over Southampton on Boxing Day, but it came at a cost.
Three players were injured, and two others received yellow cards, leading to suspensions. With key players unavailable, Lopetegui will have to make changes to his starting lineup for this West Ham vs Liverpool clash.
Despite these setbacks, West Ham will look to put in a strong performance against a tough Liverpool side. Here is the West Ham predicted lineup vs Liverpool for their Premier League clash at the London Stadium.
West Ham predicted lineup vs Liverpool - Premier League
Goalkeeper: Alphonse Areola
With Lukasz Fabianski ruled out due to a head injury, Alphonse Areola will take his place between the posts. Areola has been a reliable backup keeper and will be called upon to ensure the team remains solid at the back against Liverpool’s potent attack.
Right Back: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is expected to start at right-back for West Ham vs Liverpool. Known for his excellent defensive capabilities, Wan-Bissaka will play a key role in keeping Liverpool's attacking players at bay. He will need to use his pace and positioning to counteract the threat posed by Liverpool’s wingers.
Centre Back: Dinos Mavropanos
Dinos Mavropanos will continue to be part of the centre-back pairing. His physical presence and aerial strength make him a key figure in defence. Mavropanos will have to deal with Liverpool’s forwards and provide solid support to his defensive partner.
Centre Back: Jean-Clair Todibo
With Max Kilman sidelined due to a shoulder injury, Jean-Clair Todibo will come into the starting lineup for West Ham vs Liverpool in this Premier League fixture. Todibo brings composure on the ball and defensive stability. He will need to work closely with Mavropanos to nullify the attacking threats from Liverpool.
Left Back: Emerson Palmieri
Emerson Palmieri will keep his place at left-back. His defensive reliability and ability to get forward will be important as West Ham look to break out on the counter-attack. He will also need to help contain Liverpool’s attacking runs down the left side.
Central Midfielder: Edson Alvarez
Edson Alvarez will play a key role in midfield. The Mexican international is strong defensively and capable of breaking up the opposition’s play. Alvarez will be essential in disrupting Liverpool’s midfield and providing protection to the defence.
Central Midfielder: Lucas Paqueta
Lucas Paqueta will return to the starting lineup after serving his suspension. Paqueta is a creative force in the midfield, capable of linking play and making attacking contributions. He will be tasked with providing service to West Ham’s forward players and trying to control the tempo of the game.
Central Midfielder: Mohammed Kudus
Mohammed Kudus is expected to be shifted into a central midfield role. Although he is typically used in a more advanced position, Kudus has the versatility to adapt and provide a creative spark in the centre. He will be involved in both defensive duties and attacking transitions.
Right Wing: Jarrod Bowen
Jarrod Bowen will occupy the right-wing spot for West Ham vs Liverpool. Bowen is known for his pace, dribbling skills, and ability to score goals. He will be key in stretching Liverpool’s defence and providing width to the team. His link-up play with the other attacking players will be crucial.
Left Wing: Crysencio Summerville
Crysencio Summerville will start on the left wing. The former Leeds United player offers pace and dribbling skills, and he will look to exploit any space left by Liverpool’s defence. Summerville will be tasked with supporting the centre-forward and contributing to the team’s offensive efforts.
Centre Forward: Niclas Fullkrug
Niclas Fullkrug will continue in the centre-forward role. Fullkrug has been filling in for Michail Antonio, who is unavailable due to a road traffic accident. The German striker is known for his physicality, aerial ability, and poise in front of goal. He will be central to West Ham’s attack and will look to finish any chances created by the midfielders.
West Ham predicted lineup vs Liverpool (4-1-4-1): Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Todibo, Emerson; Alvarez; Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus, Summerville; Fullkrug.