Lucas Paquetá Set for West Ham Return Against Liverpool After Suspension

Lucas Paquetá Returns: A Timely Boost for West Ham

West Ham United fans have reason to be optimistic as Lucas Paquetá, the dynamic Brazilian midfielder, is set to return to action against Liverpool this weekend. After serving a one-match suspension, Paquetá is once again available for selection—a significant lift for a side aiming to build on recent momentum in the Premier League.

Nuno Espirito Santo’s Impact and West Ham’s Revival

The first half of the season was a rocky ride for West Ham. Following a sluggish start and the departure of Graham Potter in September, the arrival of Nuno Espirito Santo marked a turning point. Under Nuno, the team has found a new sense of stability, remaining unbeaten in their last three matches. Victories over Newcastle United and Burnley, plus a hard-fought draw with Bournemouth, have lifted the Hammers out of the relegation zone and reinvigorated the squad’s belief.

This resurgence hasn’t been without its challenges. Injuries and suspensions have forced tactical changes and stretched squad depth. Yet, in adversity, new opportunities have emerged for players to step up.

Selection Headaches: Summerville, Paquetá, and Tactical Choices

One of the key stories leading into the Liverpool clash is the fitness of Crysencio Summerville. The Dutch winger has been a driving force for West Ham since joining from Leeds, registering the club’s highest number of goal-creating actions this season. His energy and creativity have been vital under Nuno, but a recent calf strain saw him miss the draw against Bournemouth. Reports from Hammers News and the Standard indicate Summerville is likely to return to training this week, but with a 50 percent chance of making the matchday squad. Even if he is fit, club sources suggest caution—Summerville is unlikely to play the full 90 minutes to mitigate any re-injury risk.

This uncertainty presents Nuno with a tactical dilemma. He can opt for Luis Guilherme to retain pace on the flanks or shift Lucas Paquetá into a more advanced role now that the Brazilian is available again. There’s also the option to play both, moving Paquetá into a three-man midfield if Nuno switches to a back four and benches Max Kilman. These decisions will shape West Ham’s approach against a Liverpool side known for punishing defensive lapses.

Paquetá’s Role and Potential Impact

Paquetá’s return could not be better timed. His suspension was keenly felt in the last outing, where West Ham had to adjust their midfield structure. The Brazilian is known for his technical skill, vision, and ability to dictate play in tight spaces—qualities that will be essential against Liverpool’s pressing game. His presence also provides greater flexibility for Nuno, who may need to adapt quickly based on the match’s tempo and Liverpool’s attacking threats.

With Summerville’s minutes likely limited and other key players such as Lukasz Fabianski, Konstantinos Mavropanos, and Oliver Scarles still sidelined, the responsibility on Paquetá’s shoulders becomes even heavier. The Hammers will be looking to him for creativity and composure in midfield transitions, particularly if they are to exploit Liverpool on the counter.

Liverpool’s Injury Woes and Defensive Challenges

West Ham are not the only team managing injuries. Liverpool travel to the London Stadium without Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giovanni Leoni, while Florian Wirtz remains a doubt after missing a recent training session. Additionally, Joe Gomez, whose last Premier League start was against West Ham, has been struggling with knee discomfort—a situation that could force Liverpool boss Arne Slot to reshuffle his back line once again.

Slot, who has a perfect record against West Ham as Liverpool manager, will be acutely aware of the potential pitfalls. Despite their own injury problems, Liverpool remain a formidable opponent, having scored 12 goals in their last three meetings with the Hammers under Slot’s leadership. West Ham, therefore, will need to be disciplined and creative if they are to disrupt this trend.

What’s at Stake?

For West Ham, this fixture is about more than just three points. It is a chance to prove that their revival under Nuno Espirito Santo is no flash in the pan. A positive result against Liverpool would further cement their mid-table ambitions and provide much-needed breathing space from the relegation battle that loomed earlier in the season.

For Lucas Paquetá, the match represents an opportunity to reassert himself as the heartbeat of the Hammers’ midfield. His return is eagerly anticipated not just by fans, but also by teammates who benefit from his ability to link defense and attack, orchestrate possession, and create scoring chances.

Looking Ahead: Paquetá’s Influence and West Ham’s Prospects

As the season grinds on, West Ham’s fortunes may well hinge on the availability and form of key players like Paquetá and Summerville. Nuno’s tactical flexibility will be put to the test, especially against top-six opponents with greater squad depth. Every point matters, and every tactical tweak could be decisive.

The question for West Ham supporters is simple: can the team continue this upward trajectory, or will injuries and fixture congestion take their toll? The return of Lucas Paquetá offers hope and, perhaps, a timely reminder of the difference one influential player can make.

Lucas Paquetá’s return is more than just a boost to West Ham’s starting lineup—it is a potential turning point in their season. With injuries mounting and the fixture list relentless, his creativity and leadership in midfield could be the spark that sustains West Ham’s resurgence. If the Hammers are to push on and secure a comfortable finish, keeping Paquetá fit and firing will be absolutely crucial.