The suspension of Andy Carroll for tonight’s game against Brighton could offer Javier Hernandez the chance to shine through the middle for West Ham.
The Mexican international had an injury scare earlier this week but manager Slaven Bilic confirmed yesterday at his pre-match press conference that the 29 year old has a good chance of playing against the Seagulls.
Chicharito has struggled for goals in recent weeks, and many have suggested that the lack of service to the striker has meant the forward has not been able to hit the back of the net on a more regular basis.
The presence of Carroll in the side however means Hernandez has more often than not had to play out of position either by dropping deep or playing out wide. Carroll’s absence tonight could then help the Mexican in his attempts to regain top form.
Over the course of the week, West Ham fans on Twitter have been debating whether Hernandez will now step up to the mark for tonight’s game at the London stadium.
If Billic don't start Hernandez and Sakho together Friday night, then I don't know what's going on in his head! #WHUBRI #COYI #WHUFC
— Charlie Stroud ⚒ (@TheRealStroud94) 18 October 2017
It's a two way street. Poor service and Hernandez is so deep every game even when playing up front #WHUFC https://t.co/f6QYSXQYYS
— Robbie Lawther (@RLawther94) 17 October 2017
Carroll not playing friday gives sakho / hernandez a chance , looking forward to lanzini feeding these two , blessing in disguise ?? #whufc
— Bob Clark (@bobclark56) 15 October 2017
Carroll suspension might be the best thing for us. Bilic must start Hernandez and Sakho up front together now. #whufc #BURWHU
— Chris Newton (@five0123) 14 October 2017
Pull through for tomorrow @CH14 let's get the ball rolling with!
I reckon Chicharito will get 15 goals this season. No BS #whufc
Triple x— Joseph J. Jones (@josephjjones) 19 October 2017