BO4 vs WHU: Jarrod Bowen injury scare, Alvarez suspension.
West Ham United manager David Moyes faces a potential setback ahead of the Europa League quarter-final clash against Bayer Leverkusen, as integral attacker Jarrod Bowen is uncertain due to injury.
Bowen’s early exit during the Premier League victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers raised concerns among supporters, with scans revealing severe spinal bruising.
The England international remains a major doubt for the BayArena trip. His absence compounds West Ham’s injury worries, with goalkeeper Alphonse Areola already sidelined due to a groin injury.
Additionally, Edson Alvarez’s suspension for accumulating three yellow cards in the tournament presents tactical challenges for Moyes, potentially prompting a formation change, especially against Leverkusen’s anticipated three-man defense.
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Lukasz Fabianski will maintain his goalkeeping duties, shielded by the reliable duo of Kurt Zouma and Dinos Mavropanos, possibly augmented by Vladimir Coufal in a defensive trio.
Emerson Palmieri and Coufal’s inclusion may see Ben Johnson returning as a right wing-back. Despite concerns, Tomas Soucek is expected to retain his midfield role alongside James Ward-Prowse, with Kalvin Phillips unlikely to replace the suspended Alvarez.
Bowen’s potential absence could see Michail Antonio leading the Hammers’ attack, supported by Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Paqueta.
Moyes will aim to navigate these injury challenges as West Ham pursues success in Europe.
West Ham United possible starting lineup:
Fabianski; Coufal, Zouma, Mavropanos; Johnson, Soucek, Ward-Prowse, Emerson; Kudus, Paqueta, Antonio
