“West Ham CRIPPLED by DEVASTATING Injury Crisis: Star Player’s SHOCKING Setback Guarantees Nuno’s DRAMATIC Recall!”
West Ham boss Nuno Espírito Santo faces yet another setback ahead of their crucial Premier League trip to Leeds United on Friday, with defender Konstantinos Mavropanos joining Niclas Füllkrug and George Earthy on the injury list.
The Greek centre-back was forced off during the 2–0 defeat to Brentford and is set to miss the upcoming clash, as Nuno confirmed the player is awaiting scan results to determine the extent of his injury.
The Hammers’ loss to Brentford marked their fourth home league defeat of the season, setting an unwanted club record.
Nuno was heavily criticised for his team selection, which saw youngsters Olly Scarles and Kyle Walker-Peters deployed on their weaker sides and midfielders Tomáš Souček and Andy Irving preferred to Soungoutou Magassa and Freddie Potts.
With Füllkrug sidelined, many expected Callum Marshall or Jarrod Bowen to lead the line.
Instead, Nuno opted for Lucas Paquetá as a makeshift striker — a move that backfired as the Brazilian struggled in possession and was often isolated up front.
Former West Ham star Tony Cottee labelled the team selection “awful,” but Nuno defended his approach, insisting the lineup was chosen for compactness and balance, even though changes were needed by halftime.
The manager must now reshuffle again, with reports suggesting that Igor Julio — left out against Brentford — is in contention for a recall.
The summer signing has impressed in training and could replace Mavropanos in defence after Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo endured a torrid outing last time out.
Julio, described as a “strong one-v-one defender” with “excellent technique” and even called an “animal” by former Brighton coach Inigo Calderón, has played only one league minute this season.
However, with West Ham conceding more goals than any other Premier League side, Nuno may now turn to the Brazilian to inspire a much-needed response.
