Slaven Bilic has confirmed that star defender Winston Reid will be missing for Saturday’s clash with Chelsea at Upton Park.
The manager confirmed the news in today’s press conference:
“Compared to the Palace game we are without Victor Moses of course, it’s a big blow for us but we knew that when we signed him. Winston Reid isn’t going to make it, the injury isn’t major but he won’t play. All others are back available, Enner Valencia could start.”
There is no doubt that Reid’s absence is a big blow to West Ham but the news that Enner Valencia could start is a boost for the Hammers.
Bilic has often opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation so it will be interesting to see whether the manager looks to put two up front in order to accommodate the duo of Valencia and Sakho. If they do play together, their work rate and ability should cause the Chelsea defence a few issues.
Another player that could be tipped to feature is Michail Antonio. The winger has not had the chance to make an impact in the first eleven so far due to the excellent displays of his teammates but he could be given the nod in Moses’ absence.
The Champions enter the game on the back of a 0-0 Champions League draw against Dynamo Kiev. The Blues looked solid in that game and are showing signs that they are getting back to their best. Nevertheless, the Hammers will feel that they are more than capable of getting a result in a bid to heighten Jose Mourinho’s Premier League misery.
It is actually a blessing in disguise that Moses can’t play because it allows Slav to give Antonio a chance without actually having to drop Moses.
As for Reid being out, that’s not so good but if Ginge turns in the kind of performance he did against Palace, we might still be able to close the Chelsea attack down but it won’t be easy. Chelsea could hit their last year’s form at any time.
Still,all in all it is another test of how far we have come.