West Ham kick off their European campaign on Thursday, as they play host to Danish side Viborg in the final qualifying round of the Europa Conference League.
The Hammers must win the two legged tie to confirm their place in the group stages of this season’s competition, and majority of Hammers fans expect the side to ease past Viborg.
However, club captain Declan Rice will miss both qualifying games, after receiving a 2 match ban for his comments towards the officials after the clubs exit from the Europa League semi-finals last season. Manager David Moyes and vice captain will also be absent in the first leg after they both received a red card in Frankfurt.
As well as suspensions, some West Ham players could also be missing for tomorrow’s game due to injury. Craig Dawson, who is yet to feature this season, and new signing Flynn Downes, were both not present during this mornings open training session.
Assistant Manager Billy McKinlay said that Downes is only a slight precaution and should be fine for tomorrow’s match.
The Hammers also have some positive news before the game, as fan favourite Angelo Ogbonna was present in training today, as he edged closer to a return from his ACL injury that has kept him out of action since November.
New centre back Thilo Kehrer was announced today, and he could also feature in tomorrows game. The German international joins the club from PSG for a few of around £10 million.
Viborg will be without two of their star players due to complications with visas. Alassana Jatta and Ibrahim Muhammad Said will miss the first leg despite efforts from UEFA and the Danish FA.
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