West Ham’s derby opponents Millwall have suffered a Romain Esse injury setback ahead of Saturday’s meeting at The Den.
Alex Neil expects the winger’s ankle problem to keep him sidelined beyond the international break. That assessment puts his involvement against the Hammers firmly in doubt.
Esse missed Tuesday’s 2–2 draw at Middlesbrough. He had made just three appearances since returning to Millwall on loan from Crystal Palace.
Romain Esse injury adds to Millwall’s problems
Speaking after the Middlesbrough match, Neil explained that Millwall still needed to establish the full extent of the damage.
“It’s going to be well after the international break, I believe,” Neil told Southwark News in its latest Millwall injury report.
“It’s hard to put a timeline on it just now.”
His comments suggest an extended absence, although the club have not provided a definitive return date.
For Nuno Espírito Santo, the update removes some uncertainty around the opposition’s likely attacking options. However, Millwall’s draw at Middlesbrough offers a reminder that missing players do not automatically make them straightforward opponents.
West Ham turn attention towards The Den
The Hammers head into the derby after their 3–2 Carabao Cup defeat against Fulham.
Morato and Pablo twice brought West Ham level, before Oscar Bobb scored the winner at London Stadium.
Saturday brings a different challenge as league football resumes. The 12.30pm kick-off marks West Ham’s first competitive visit to The Den since September 2011.
Our West Ham–Millwall rivalry guide covers the history behind a fixture returning to the Championship calendar this season.
