Written by : @daena_bodie

Lanzini’s return to the squad was welcomed amongst fans and players alike. With most recognizing the quality he possesses, it was important to have him back in the fold. It’s obvious that Pellegrini rates the young Argentinian playmaker, but he has found it hard to make an impact since being reintroduced to the starting XI.

Having spent such a long period of time out through injury, it’s hardly surprising that he hasn’t jumped back in and been the Lanzini of old. Really, it’s more surprising to see him get as much time on the pitch as he has so far. However, you must remember, this is West Ham and a long list of injuries is to be expected. Without the slew of injuries hampering the first team, especially in the midfield area, Lanzini would not have seen as much of the pitch as he has.

There has been a lot of discussion about Manu’s inclusion and the time it will take for him to get back into his rhythm and he is clearly not on song at the moment. Lanzini lacked consistency at the best of times, showing his class one week and then going quiet for three, but taking into account his injury and being rushed into the starting XI, it’s clear he still has some catching up to do. Being sidelined with this minor groin injury might be a blessing in disguise when it comes to rediscovering his form. It should allow him some time to ease back into the team with others regaining fitness around him and allow Pellegrini to limit his playing time.

The minor injury to Lanzini could make way for a Hammer who has begun to find form again recently, Michail Antonio. While he had a pretty poor season last season, hampered by injury and a lack of overall fitness, Antonio has found himself being one of the Irons most influential players as this season closes out.

He’s a fairly unorthodox player who seems to find his way out of situations in the strangest of ways, through either sheer strength or pace, and he has been effective. He’s a player that has an impact and opposition teams will always be wary of him. He is difficult to defend against and while he might not be the most technical of players, he makes something out of nothing time and time again.

Coming on against United, Antonio showed Pellegrini exactly why he is an asset to the team. Not only has he been utilized in various positions throughout the season, he’s got his head down and worked hard at it. Now, with Lanzini clambering for form and likely to miss the match against Leicester, Antonio looks likely to get the nod in the starting line-up and it’s hard to argue the fact that he’s deserved it.