The Athletic’s West Ham United correspondent Roshane Thomas has recently claimed that Said Benrahma is unlikely to start against Liverpool.
During the recent transfer window, the Hammers sealed the arrival of the Algerian winger on a season-long loan from Brentford with an obligation to make the move permanent (per BBC).
Since his arrival, the 25-year-old attacker is yet to make an appearance for David Moyes’ outfit (per Transfermarkt).
This Saturday, the Irons travel to Merseyside as they face Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool in a 17:30 kick-off at Anfield (per West Ham).
During the latest episode of The Athletic’s U Irons podcast, Thomas previewed the Hammers’ match against the Reds and revealed that it is unlikely Benrahma will be starting.
He said: “I don’t think Benrahma will start. Moyes, in his press conference, said he’s going to be cautious with Benrahma. Similar to the way he was cautious with Jarrod Bowen.
“[He] doesn’t want to put too much pressure on him right now. He’s always a bit cautious when he signs players from the Championship, which I understand.
“So, I reckon it will be the same team that played against Man City. Well, hopefully, [Michail] Antonio will be fit because we need him and he’s been great for us.”
TIF Thoughts on what Roshane Thomas said about Said Benrahma…
So, judging from what The Athletic reporter had to say, West Ham fans should not be expecting to see their new signing starting for them at Anfield.
Do you think Said Benrahma should start against Liverpool?
No, he's not ready yet
Yes, he should be starting
With the winger not having been in either of the squads for the games against Tottenham Hotspur or Manchester City (per Transfermarkt), hopefully, there is at least a spot on the bench for the Algerian.
During the 2019/20 Championship season, Benrahma picked up an impressive 7.49/10 average rating across 46 appearances (per WhoScored), so, it is clear that he is a talented player.