otter Confirms West Ham Duo to Miss Opening Premier League Game Against Sunderland
West Ham United will be without two key players when they kick off their 2025/26 Premier League campaign against Sunderland, manager Graham Potter has confirmed. Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Potter revealed that both injuries and fitness concerns have ruled the duo out of the season opener at the London Stadium.
While Potter refrained from disclosing the full squad list, he did confirm that the absentees include one senior defender and a midfielder who were instrumental in West Ham’s strong finish last season. “Unfortunately, they won’t be available for Sunday,” Potter told reporters. “Both have been working hard in training, but they’re not quite ready for the intensity of a Premier League match. We have to be careful and not rush them back too soon.”
The Hammers have endured a challenging pre-season with several players struggling for match fitness after international duty and minor injuries. The confirmed absences will add to Potter’s selection headache as he looks to start his first full season in charge on a positive note. The manager hinted that youngsters from the club’s academy could feature in the matchday squad as cover.
“Every setback is an opportunity,” Potter said. “We’ve seen some of the young lads impress in pre-season, and they might get their chance earlier than expected. That’s football
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