West Ham travel to FCSB having already sewn up top spot in the group but looking to become the first side in the competition’s history to win each of their six group games.
A win over Silkeborg last week confirmed that they would go through as group winners, avoiding the round of 32 in the process. Now, they travel to Bucharest to preserve their 100% record, but are likely to look to do so with a much-rotated side.
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Predicted XI
Aguerd to return
One positive for the Hammers will be the return of summer signing Nayef Aguerd, who has been absent since the competition’s opener with an ankle injury, but was still included in the squad despite this.
‘We’re trying to get him back and these games have been really good for him’, Moyes told the media. We included him the squad from the start because we hoped he might be available for the last couple of games, and that’s the way it’s proved to be.’
He may well be handed a starting berth, with Kurt Zouma not having travelled.
Youngsters to feature too
Additionally, Moyes has warned that several youngsters will be involved too, though it is unclear how many will be given starts given that the Hammers are still keen to win the game.
“There are still a lot of senior players involved and they all want to be playing, so hopefully we can go to FCSB and get that sixth victory.
‘We’re not full of young players but there are a couple of young players that are going to start tomorrow night. We’re going to give them an opportunity, and maybe some of the others will get an opportunity as well, because in some of the other games we weren’t able to do so.’
Freddie Potts and Keenan Forson both made the substitutes bench last week, while Harrison Ashby, Regan Clayton and Oliver Scarles have all also featured among the subs this season. It could finally be a chance to shine for several of them.
