AliousTom Rennie is puzzled by Julen Lopetegui’s decision to field an unchanged West Ham United lineup against Crystal Palace.
The Hammers secured their first victory under the former Real Madrid manager with a 2-0 win at Selhurst Park on Saturday (24 August), thanks to second-half goals from Tomas Soucek and Jarrod Bowen.Despite having new signings like Crysencio Summerville, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Niclas Fullkrug available, Lopetegui chose the same team that lost to Aston Villa, confusing talkSPORT broadcaster Rennie.Rennie commented on X:
“It’s not entirely fair, but if David Moyes had selected the same eleven as last weekend, ignoring the new defenders and striker, there would be protests.
That’s an unusual choice from Lopetegui.”It does seem odd that despite significant summer transfer backing, Lopetegui has essentially fielded a Moyes-era team for his first two Premier League matches as West Ham manager.
New players do need time to integrate, and Lopetegui may feel his signings aren’t ready for a full 90 minutes.
However, this decision puts him under immediate pressure.
Fans hope it won’t be long before Summerville, Fullkrug, and Todibo make their full debuts for West Ham.
The Carabao Cup match against Bournemouth on Wednesday (28 August) could be Lopetegui’s opportunity to give them playing time.
This fixture carries less weight than a Premier League game and might be the ideal moment.Ultimately, West Ham fans care most about winning games.
As long as the team secures three points, they likely won’t be concerned about who’s in the starting lineup.
Alious
