West Ham attacker Manuel Lanzini has been ruled out of contention for Saturday’s clash with Southampton, according to a club insider.
ExWHUemployee, who is a reliable source for exclusive Hammers information on Twitter, revealed late on Saturday morning that the Argentine was ruled out of the clash on Friday.
Reports elsewhere have been suggesting that the 25-year-old was facing a late fitness test ahead of the Saints clash, but Ex claims that the key forward has never been in contention to be part of the squad.
They add that Lanzini is targeting the Hammers’ clash with Chelsea next Sunday the 8th of March as his return fixture:
Despite incorrect reports elsewhere. Lanzini was ruled out yesterday and he never been in the squad. He resumed training (light running) with Chelsea in mind as his return fixture ?
— ExWHUEmployee (@ExWHUEmployee) March 31, 2018
OPINION
Losing Lanzini is a massive blow for the Hammers as they head into this must-win clash against relegation rivals Southampton. The crowd trouble during their last game against Burnley is hanging over the club like a dark cloud, and they need a positive result to dissipate the negativity that is overwhelming at the moment. Lanzini is key to their attacking play with his ability to unlock defences, and would surely have been extra effective against a slow Saints centre-back pairing. However, the Hammers do have some other decent forward options and they should still pose issues to Mark Hughes’ new side.