West Ham United striker Marko Arnautovic has returned to training ahead of the Newcastle clash this weekend, according to reliable journalist Sam Inkersole.
Football London journalist Inkersole says on his personal Twitter account that after the Austrian star missed the 1-0 defeat on Wednesday due to acquiring a virus, he has now returned to training and is likely to face the Magpies in Saturday’s evening kick off.
He pulled out at the last minute in midweek, a decision which meant that boss Manuel Pellegrini had to play fringe attacker Andy Carroll – who has 12 Premier League appearances this season – up front instead.
Marko Arnautovic has trained as normal after his virus that caused him to miss the 1-0 defeat to Man City on Wednesday. Should be good to go this weekend. #WHUFC
— Sam Inkersole (@Sam_InkersoleTM) March 1, 2019
OPINION
West Ham sorely missed Arnautovic in the defeat on Wednesday, as they hardly threatened City in the slightest with their attack. Carroll’s impact was minimal in the first half, and the one chance he did get in the second half was headed straight at keeper Ederson. Many fans will be relieved that he is likely to return to the line up to face Newcastle, as having Carroll up front was just pointless. Yes, he has not been at his best since the whole drama surrounding his future, but surely he is a much better option than the hopeless Carroll? Newcastle are looking dangerous at the moment after two crucial wins, and with the likes of Miguel Almiron in their team, they are going to have their work cut out. However, Arnautovic could be the Hammers’ secret weapon this weekend, and they must make the most of it if he is on the pitch.