West Ham United could have two new signings available for Saturday’s Championship clash with Charlton Athletic, although Nuno Espírito Santo also has an attacking fitness concern to manage.
The Hammers host Charlton at London Stadium on Saturday 22 August at 3pm BST, looking for their first league win following the 2-2 draw at Burnley. West Ham’s official fixture information confirms the date and kick-off time.
Nuno’s options have changed significantly since Turf Moor.
Arne Engels set for West Ham debut against Charlton
Arne Engels should be available to make his West Ham debut.
The £22million midfielder was unable to feature at Burnley because his registration was not completed in time.
talkSPORT reported that Charlton was expected to be Engels’ first available fixture following his move from Celtic.
That gives Nuno an immediate midfield decision.
Lewis Orford and Mohamadou Kanté started together at Turf Moor, with James Ward-Prowse introduced at half-time after Pablo Felipe was withdrawn.
ReadWestHam has already looked at the selection consequences created by Engels’ arrival, and Saturday could provide the first indication of Nuno’s preferred midfield hierarchy.
Joel Piroe could make immediate West Ham debut
Joel Piroe is also in contention after completing his move from Leeds United.
West Ham confirmed Piroe’s arrival this week, giving Nuno a proven Championship scorer after he publicly called for more attacking options following the Burnley draw.
Piroe scored regularly at Championship level with Swansea and Leeds and could compete with Taty Castellanos for a starting position.
His arrival could prove particularly useful because Pablo remains a fitness concern.
ReadWestHam reported that Pablo suffered a calf issue ahead of the Charlton fixture.
Nuno will therefore need to assess whether the Brazilian is ready to return before deciding how aggressively to introduce Piroe.
The Guardian reported after the Burnley game that the West Ham head coach wanted further attacking reinforcements following a bench containing several inexperienced academy options. (theguardian.com)
Two new senior options could now be available only six days later.
Further clarity should arrive when Nuno provides his final fitness update before Saturday’s game.
