Joel Veltman could make his West Ham debut against Portsmouth on Saturday as Nuno Espírito Santo prepares for the club’s first competitive game of the season.
The Joel Veltman West Ham debut would come just days after the experienced defender completed his free transfer to the London Stadium.
West Ham officially confirmed Veltman’s arrival on Thursday following the expiry of his Brighton contract.
The 34-year-old gives Nuno another option at both right-back and centre-back after six seasons of Premier League football with Brighton.
West Ham described Veltman as an experienced defender and natural leader when confirming his signing.
He could now be handed an immediate opportunity.
talkSPORT’s latest team-news guide lists Veltman among the West Ham players who could make their debuts when Portsmouth visit the London Stadium in the Carabao Cup first round.
Joel Veltman West Ham debut could give Nuno immediate solution
Nuno has several reasons to consider introducing his new signing straight away.
The West Ham boss has already confirmed that academy players will receive opportunities on Saturday, so an experienced presence alongside them could be particularly useful.
Veltman has played extensively at both right-back and centre-back during his career, giving Nuno flexibility when rotating his defence.
ReadWestHam analysed on Thursday why Veltman could prove a smart addition, particularly because of his versatility and leadership.
Saturday could provide the first evidence of how Nuno plans to use him.
Kyle Walker-Peters has been West Ham’s leading right-back option, while the futures of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Jean-Clair Todibo remain uncertain.
Veltman does not necessarily need to replace either player immediately.
However, a Joel Veltman West Ham debut against Portsmouth would give Nuno another experienced defensive option before the Championship campaign begins at Burnley next weekend.
