According to Talk Sport’s journalist Alex Crook, West Ham United’s latest signing, Gianluca Scamacca, will not start against Manchester City in their season opener due to a lack of match sharpness.
The Hammers added to a huge area of need which is their striker position with Scamacca as they only had Michail Antonio as a recognised striker in the squad and they are ready to open their 22/23 Premier League campaign his weekend against current champions Man City.
However, it now looks like they could be without their new signing for their first game as Crook states he is currently out due to a lack of match sharpness and insists fans could be waiting a while before they see the best of their star man.
Crook told the Talk Sport Game Day podcast, “No, not from what I’m hearing. I think he’s [Gianluca Scamacca] still getting up to match sharpness. I’m sure be part of the squad. But I think it’s going to be a while before West Ham fans see the best of him”. (17:01)
TIF Thoughts on Crook’s comments…
With their ambitions to break into the top six this season while competing for the Europa Conference League trophy, the Hammers will need all hands on deck and especially their key players in a thin area like their striker position.
Therefore, while it is only the opening game of the season, West Ham fans will surely be disappointed that Scamacca is not ready to start and hit the ground running for his new club. Luckily, they still have Antonio who impressed last season with 13 goals and 11 assists in all competitions, but Scamacca is a proven goalscorer with 16 in the Serie A last season.
However, it is going to be very difficult for West Ham to pick up three points against City this weekend and missing this game could be one of the best to miss for the season, it will also give Scamacca the time to get ready for their important game away at Nottingham Forest next week.
Will Scamacca start over Antonio this season?Yes
No
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