Ten Hag's team news for Hammers clash

The Reds welcome West Ham United to M16, in only our second home outing of 2024, on the back of the thrilling 4-3 victory at Wolves on Thursday night.

Marcus Rashford returned to the side, and opened the scoring, and the manager has suggested Lisandro Martinez was only withdrawn as a precautionary measure, even if the centre-back was spotted with a heavily strapped left foot.

Andre Onana replaced Altay Bayindir in goal at Molineux, and our other Africa Cup of Nations representative, Sofyan Amrabat, is due back this weekend, following Morocco's elimination from the tournament.

"Sofyan will return on Saturday in the training," stated Ten Hag at his press conference previewing the Hammers clash. "Ty [Tyrell Malacia] and Mason Mount, I don't expect them back, but Victor Lindelof, I think he is on his way back. He trained with the team on Wednesday and we have to see how far he is [along].

"Aaron Wan-Bissaka is also on the way back. He could be available but I don't think he will make it for Sunday. But I'm not sure at this moment. There is a problem in his leg."

Anthony Martial remains out after a groin operation but things do, hopefully, appear to be looking up on the injury front.

In Mount's case, Ten Hag expressed sympathy for the summer signing, who has not played since the win over Luton Town in November. However, it is expected the England international will be back to play his part in the season.

"I think he is struggling from the second game of the season," added the manager. "And then he returns for a period and picked up another injury. So, of course, that's not great.

"Very frustrating for him and I really feel for him. So I want to be here for him. He had such expectations. I had high expectations, as I'm sure he is a very good player for us.

"First of all, what's now important is we have to do it very secure to get him fit and secure the process, step by step. Don't force it and then, hopefully, by the end of the season, he can stay fit and find himself in the team. At least, he can play a role in this team."

When asked if Mount would definitely play again in 2023/24, the boss clarified: "Absolutely. I expect him to return."

WEST HAM'S TEAM NEWS

David Moyes welcomed Mohammed Kudus back into the fold for the 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Thursday night - the Ghana international, who scored against United in the corresponding fixture, earned a penalty that was converted by James Ward-Prowse.

Kalvin Phillips made his debut, following his loan move from Manchester City, but his misplaced backpass allowed Dominic Solanke the find the net, early on, for the Cherries.

Nayef Aguerd should be available, after his Africa Cup of Nations commitments with Morocco, and Vladimir Coufal returns from suspension.

"It's a quick turnaround," said Moyes. "But, hopefully, everyone will be okay. We're still dealing with the players that have been injured. Lucas Paqueta won't be back this weekend and Michail Antonio is back running on the grass.

"We're without Paqueta and Antonio, at the moment, which is probably mitigating circumstances as to why we're not getting many goals at the moment."

The Hammers looked like selling Pablo Fornals [Real Betis] and Said Benrahma [Lyon] on deadline day but the moves hit a snag. Benrahma is suspended, in any case, after his straight red card in the Emirates FA Cup exit to Bristol City.