Lopetegui to Drop Kudus in Two Changes – Predicted West Ham XI vs. Ipswich
Julen Lopetegui is considering dropping Mohammed Kudus from his West Ham United starting XI against Ipswich following their recent altercation.
The two clashed when the Ghanaian international was substituted at half-time against Brentford for “tactical” reasons.
The upcoming match against the Tractor Boys is set to take place at the London Stadium, where the Hammers aim to end their recent poor form and climb the Premier League table.
In their previous game, they managed a 1-1 draw with Brentford, despite Julen Lopetegui’s team firing off 19 shots throughout the match.
Lopetegui is expected to implement changes for the clash against West Ham United. Alphonse Areola will remain in goal, firmly establishing himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Emerson and £15 million signing Aaron Wan-Bissaka are both likely to retain their spots in the starting XI, as Lopetegui seeks an improved performance from them compared to their last outing【Manchester Evening News, 13 August】.
Max Kilman and Jean Clair-Todibo will complete the back four, with the new Hammers duo aiming to reinforce the team’s defensive strength.
Guido Rodriguez will serve as the connection between defense and midfield, playing a crucial role in transitioning the ball into attacking positions.
Tomas Soucek and Lucas Paqueta will also take their places in central midfield, contributing attacking options to what is otherwise a defensive lineup.
On the left wing, Mohammed Kudus will be replaced by Crysencio Summerville after his altercation with the manager during half-time of the Brentford game【The Athletic, 2 October】.
Jarrod Bowen will continue on the right, enhancing the attacking threat.
Lastly, Michail Antonio may be benched in favor of Danny Ings, who offers a different dynamic after Antonio’s inconsistent performances so far this season.
