West Ham could hand Divine Mukasa his first start against Southampton on Tuesday night, with the Manchester City loanee having already scored and assisted against the Saints earlier this year.
Mukasa made his senior West Ham debut as a substitute during Saturday’s defeat against Charlton Athletic, just one day after completing his return to east London.
The 19-year-old now has an opportunity to make a greater impact in the Carabao Cup against opponents who already know exactly what he can produce.
Divine Mukasa has already caused Southampton problems
Mukasa faced Southampton while on loan at Leicester City in February and needed just nine minutes to open the scoring on his first start for the Foxes.
He then provided the assist for Abdul Fatawu’s 29th-minute strike as Leicester established a three-goal advantage.
Sky Sports’ match commentary confirms both contributions, with Mukasa substituted after 64 minutes while Leicester still led 3-1.
Southampton eventually staged a remarkable comeback to win 4-3, but the teenager had already demonstrated his ability to trouble Tonda Eckert’s defence.
His latest appearance provided another glimpse of that attacking threat.
Sky Sports reported that Charlton goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo produced an excellent save to deny Mukasa after his introduction at the London Stadium.
West Ham confirmed Mukasa’s season-long loan from Manchester City on Friday, bringing the Newham-born midfielder back to the academy where he spent a decade.
Nuno Espírito Santo now has reason to consider changes with the Southampton fixture arriving three days after the Charlton defeat.
James Ward-Prowse could also receive his first start against his former club, while Mukasa offers another fresh option behind the forwards or from a wider position.
Southampton have their own former West Ham youngster capable of making an impact, with Divin Mubama potentially facing the club where he began his career.
For Mukasa, however, Tuesday’s tie represents an opportunity to repeat a performance Southampton will remember.
