How West Ham United could line up v Everton – Paqueta to return

As West Ham United prepares to face Everton in a crucial Premier League clash, the anticipation surrounding the lineup is palpable. With the potential return of Lucas Paquetá, the Hammers are looking to bolster their midfield and enhance their attacking options. This article will explore how West Ham could line up against Everton, taking into account player form, tactical considerations, and the implications of Paquetá’s return.

Current State of West Ham United

West Ham has had a mixed start to the season, with some impressive performances overshadowed by inconsistent results. Manager David Moyes is under pressure to deliver results, and the upcoming match against Everton presents an opportunity to secure vital points. The Hammers currently sit mid-table and are eager to climb the standings as they aim for a top-half finish.

Recent Form

West Ham’s recent form has been a topic of discussion among fans and pundits alike. The team has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in their attacking play, but defensive lapses have cost them points in crucial matches. The return of key players like Paquetá could provide the spark needed to turn their fortunes around.

Tactical Considerations

David Moyes is known for his pragmatic approach to management, often setting his teams up to be defensively solid while looking to exploit the opposition’s weaknesses on the counter-attack. Against Everton, Moyes will likely adopt a similar strategy, focusing on maintaining a strong defensive shape while utilizing the pace and creativity of his attacking players.

Formation

West Ham is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allows for both defensive stability and attacking fluidity. This setup provides a solid base in midfield while allowing the wingers and attacking midfielder to support the lone striker.

Potential Lineup Against Everton

1. Goalkeeper: Lukasz Fabianski
   • The experienced Polish goalkeeper remains a key figure for West Ham. Fabianski’s shot-stopping ability and leadership at the back will be crucial in keeping Everton at bay.
2. Right Back: Vladimir Coufal
   • Coufal has been a consistent performer for West Ham, providing defensive solidity and the ability to support the attack. His overlapping runs will be essential in stretching Everton’s defense.
3. Center Back: Kurt Zouma
   • Zouma’s physical presence and aerial ability make him a vital part of West Ham’s defense. He will be tasked with dealing with Everton’s attacking threats, particularly from set-pieces.
4. Center Back: Nayef Aguerd
   • The Moroccan international has settled well into the Premier League and has formed a solid partnership with Zouma. His pace and ability to read the game will be crucial against Everton’s forwards.
5. Left Back: Aaron Cresswell
   • Cresswell’s experience and ability to deliver quality crosses make him an important asset in both defense and attack. His set-piece delivery could also prove vital in breaking down Everton’s defense.
6. Central Midfield: Declan Rice
   • The England international is the heartbeat of West Ham’s midfield. Rice’s ability to break up play and distribute the ball effectively will be essential in controlling the tempo of the match.
7. Central Midfield: Lucas Paquetá
   • Paquetá’s potential return is a significant boost for West Ham. His creativity and technical ability can unlock defenses, and he will be crucial in linking play between midfield and attack.
8. Right Wing: Jarrod Bowen
   • Bowen has been in fine form, providing pace and directness on the right flank. His ability to cut inside and create goal-scoring opportunities will be vital against Everton’s defense.
9. Attacking Midfield: Pablo Fornals
   • Fornals’ work rate and creativity make him an ideal candidate for the attacking midfield role. He will be tasked with supporting the striker and creating chances for his teammates.
10. Left Wing: Said Benrahma
    • Benrahma’s flair and dribbling ability can cause problems for opposing defenses. His ability to take on defenders and create space will be crucial in breaking down Everton’s backline.
11. Striker: Michail Antonio
    • The powerful forward remains West Ham’s primary goal-scoring threat. Antonio’s physicality and pace will be key in leading the line and creating opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Key Matchups

The match against Everton will present several key matchups that could determine the outcome of the game.

Declan Rice vs. Everton’s Midfield

Rice’s battle against Everton’s midfield will be crucial in determining who controls the game. If Rice can dominate the midfield and break up play, it will allow West Ham to transition quickly into attack.

Lucas Paquetá vs. Everton’s Defense

Paquetá’s creativity and ability to find space will be vital in breaking down Everton’s defensive structure. His link-up play with the forwards could be the key to unlocking the Toffees’ backline.

Michail Antonio vs. Everton’s Center Backs

Antonio’s physicality and pace will pose a significant threat to Everton’s center-backs. If he can exploit any weaknesses in their positioning, he could find himself with several goal-scoring opportunities.

Everton’s Threats

While West Ham will be looking to impose their game, they must also be wary of Everton’s attacking threats. The Toffees have a talented squad capable of causing problems on their day.

Key Players to Watch

• Dominic Calvert-Lewin: The striker is a constant threat in the box and has a knack for scoring goals. West Ham’s defense will need to be alert to his movement and aerial ability.
• Anthony Gordon: The young winger has been in impressive form, providing pace and creativity on the flanks. His ability to take on defenders could pose problems for West Ham’s full-backs.
• Amadou Onana: The midfielder has been a standout performer for Everton, providing physicality and energy in the middle of the park. His ability to break up play and contribute to attacks will be crucial for the Toffees.

The Importance of the Match

The clash against Everton is significant for both teams. For West Ham, a victory would provide a much-needed boost in confidence and help them climb the Premier League table. For Everton, securing points at home is vital as they look to establish themselves in the upper half of the standings.

Momentum Shift

A win for West Ham could serve as a turning point in their season, providing momentum as they head into a busy schedule. Conversely, a loss could exacerbate the pressure on Moyes and his players.

Conclusion

As West Ham United prepares to face Everton, the potential return of Lucas Paquetá adds an exciting dimension to their lineup. With a solid tactical approach and key players ready to make an impact, the Hammers will be looking to secure a vital three points. The match promises to be an intriguing contest, with both teams eager to assert their dominance in the Premier League.

Looking Ahead

Following the match against Everton, West Ham will need to build on any positive momentum they gain. The upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining their season’s trajectory, and the integration of Paquetá into the squad could be pivotal in achieving their goals.

Future Fixtures

• Upcoming Matches: West Ham’s schedule will include several challenging fixtures, and consistency will be key. The team will need to maintain focus and continue to develop their chemistry on the pitch.
• Injury Management: Moyes will need to manage player fitness carefully, especially with the demands of the Premier League. Ensuring that key players remain fit and available will be crucial for the team’s success.

Final Thoughts

The return of Lucas Paquetá could be a game-changer for West Ham United as they prepare to face Everton. With a strong lineup and a clear tactical plan, the Hammers are poised to make a statement in this crucial match. As the season progresses, the team’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be tested, and the upcoming clash against Everton will be a significant indicator of their potential.

With the support of their passionate fanbase, West Ham will be looking to turn their fortunes around and establish themselves as a competitive force in the Premier League. The excitement surrounding the match is palpable, and fans will be eagerly anticipating the action as the Hammers take to the pitch.Bookmark messageCopy messageExportScroll to bottom

Message Blackboxtab