OPINION
West Ham United have endured a tough start to the season after losing their opening two Premier League matches, and things do not get any easier this weekend as the Hammers prepare to travel to the Emirates Stadium to take on Arsenal.
An opening day defeat to Liverpool was not a surprise, but the Irons’ failure to beat Bournemouth from a winning position at home last weekend was an indication of just how far Manuel Pellegrini has to go with his new-look squad.
One are of huge concern to Pellegrini is midfield, with a trio of Mark Noble, Jack Wilshere, and Declan Rice being totally overrun against Liverpool, before Noble and Wilshere failed to impress as a partnership against the Cherries.
Rice was the first midfielder to be axed after missing out against Bournemouth, and more changes are likely this weekend against the Gunners as Pellegrini attempts to work out his best side.
The next player that has been reported to be in line for the chop is captain Noble, who looked well off the pace in both matches so far this season.
The Daily Mail claimed that the midfielder was set to be axed to the bench for the Arsenal clash with Pellegrini concerned about a lack of pace in midfield.
However, an unfortunate turn of events this week has seen Noble become a doubt for the game with a back injury, and the decision may therefore be made for Pellegrini.
While it is obviously a blow that Noble is injured, the back problem does not look to be serious, and this could not have come at a more perfect time for Pellegrini.
The Chilean will now not have to worry about the risks of dropping his captain and instead be able to trial a new midfield without Noble with no fear of repercussions.
The introduction of Pedro Obiang or new signing Carlos Sanchez has been expected, and this could possible give him the chance to introduce both men into the fold.
All in all, this injury blow could end up being a positive thing for West Ham going forward as Pellegrini looks to work out his best starting XI against Arsenal.