West Ham face Brighton and Hove Albion on Friday evening, and won’t be able to call on the services of the suspended Andy Carroll.
Diafra Sakho is ruled out with injury, while Javier Hernandez could be risked despite picking up a knock in training on Tuesday.
Fans have called for under-23 striker Toni Martinez to be included in the senior team squad following his 23 goals, including an hat trick against Manchester United last Sunday, in 26 games for the youth team since joining from Valencia last summer.
However, manager Slaven Bilic has confirmed the Spain youth international won’t be in Friday’s squad for the Seagulls’ visit.
As a result, the Croatian might have ruined a perfect opportunity for the youngster to have his own Marcus Rashford moment.
The Manchester United teenage star hit the headlines after erstwhile boss Louis van Gaal handed him an opportunity following major injuries to his striking options 2 seasons ago.
The England international grabbed the chance with both hands, and the rest is history.
Martinez should be afforded the same exact chance to make a name for himself, or at least prove his quality at the top level.
While the trio of Marko Arnautovic, André Ayew and Michail Antonio are capable of playing upfront in case Chicharito doesn’t eventually make it to the lineup, Bilic would have made a statement by trusting a youth player for a clash against a side like Brighton.
Perhaps, such unwillingness to give youth a chance is why West Ham’s London neighbours Tottenham are excelling while they are struggling.
