AdminThree weeks without football can feel like a long wait, although West Ham United supporters may welcome the break after a hectic start to the Championship season.
The Hammers have gone unbeaten in their last six league matches, but their latest outing against Millwall highlighted an issue that continues to concern Nuno Espírito Santo.
West Ham again struggled to defend long throws, despite having spent almost a year working under the Portuguese head coach.
After eight Championship fixtures and two Carling Cup matches, the break gives the squad an opportunity to recover from injuries and fatigue while allowing Nuno valuable time to work on the training ground.
The manager will also have to plan without young midfielder Mohamadou Kanté, who is set to serve a one-match suspension following his red card against Millwall.
According to the FA disciplinary rules, Kanté’s ban will be served against Queens Park Rangers on Friday, October 7, meaning he will be available again afterwards.
His absence could provide an opening for Soungoutou Magassa, who returned to the matchday squad yesterday after previously falling out with Nuno.
The French midfielder was named among the substitutes and could now have a chance to rebuild his position within the squad.
Meanwhile, West Ham fans continue to await developments surrounding allegations involving Taty Castellanos, who has been accused of spitting at Millwall goalkeeper. Any FA decision will be closely watched.
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