“Not good enough to be starting for West Ham, here is a replacement” Julen Lopetugi must AXE this player that has been PULLING West Ham down, the replacement should be……..

Julen Lopetegui Must Drop Michail Antonio After Shocking Statistic Emerges

West Ham United’s 1-1 draw with Fulham on September 14 has left manager Julen Lopetegui with a pressing decision to make. Michail Antonio’s underwhelming performance has sparked calls for his exclusion from the starting lineup, and a startling statistic has only added fuel to the fire.

Antonio’s lackluster display saw him replaced at halftime, and his inability to make an impact in the attacking third has raised concerns. The veteran striker failed to register a single shot or dribble in his 45 minutes on the pitch, a worrying trend that has continued into the new season.

George Simms of the I reported that Antonio has averaged as many shots per game in 2024-25 as Casemiro and Kyle Walker-Peters, a damning comparison that highlights his struggles. This lack of productivity has led to increased scrutiny, and Lopetegui must now consider alternative options up front.

The introduction of Jarrod Bowen as a makeshift number nine in the second half brought a noticeable change in momentum, and Danny Ings’ late equalizer has thrust him into the spotlight. With a plethora of attacking options at his disposal, Lopetegui cannot afford to persist with Antonio’s stagnant form.

The Hammers’ next match against Chelsea presents an opportunity for Lopetegui to reassess his attacking lineup. With Ings and Bowen staking their claims, Crysencio Summerville’s direct running and link-up play make a compelling case for his inclusion. Lucas Paqueta’s recall and Mohammed Kudus’ involvement could complete a formidable front four, leaving Antonio out of the picture.

This decision would not only appease the home fans but also provide a much-needed injection of quality and pace into West Ham’s attack. Antonio’s static presence around the 18-yard box has become a liability, and Lopetegui must act to address this issue.

In other news, West Ham United is reportedly in negotiations for a new free transfer in defense, a move that could bolster their backline and provide additional depth. However, the focus remains on Lopetegui’s attacking conundrum and the need to drop Antonio from the starting lineup.

Key Statistics:

• Michail Antonio failed to register a shot or dribble in 45 minutes against Fulham
• Antonio has averaged as many shots per game in 2024-25 as Casemiro and Kyle Walker-Peters
• Jarrod Bowen’s switch to number nine brought a change in momentum against Fulham
• Danny Ings’ late equalizer has thrust him into contention for a starting role

Expert Analysis:

• George Simms: “Antonio’s lack of impact is a concern for West Ham.”
• Julen Lopetegui: “We have options up front, and we will assess them carefully.”

Implications for West Ham United:

• Michail Antonio’s exclusion from the starting lineup is necessary
• Alternative attacking options must be explored
• Lopetegui’s decision will have a significant impact on West Ham’s season

As West Ham United prepares to face Chelsea, the pressure is mounting on Lopetegui to make the right call. With Antonio’s form showing no signs of improvement, the time has come to drop him from the starting lineup and inject new life into the attack. Will Lopetegui make the bold decision, or will he persist with a struggling Antonio? The answer will have far-reaching consequences for West Ham’s season.