West Ham starlet tipped to start against Tottenham after crushing Coufal blow – pundit
Harrison Ashby could be handed a “real opportunity” for West Ham against Tottenham next Wednesday, according to Danny Mills.
The former England defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, urged the 20-year-old to “take the chance” in the absence of Vladimir Coufal.
Coufal is suspended as West Ham take on Tottenham in the League Cup quarter-final next Wednesday (22 December).
He picked up a one-match ban after being dismissed with a second bookable offence during the Hammers’ 2-0 away defeat at Arsenal on Wednesday.
Mills suggested David Moyes will be utilising promising youngsters in first-team training during the busy festive period.
“We’re seeing a lot of these injuries and suspensions around the league,” he told Football Insider‘s Connor Whitley.
“These situations provide a real opportunity for players like Ashby, and sometimes managers have to throw them in because of the schedule.
“It’s very possible he will get the chance and it’s just up to him to take it.
The managers, especially David Moyes, will know about the possibility of having to use these youngsters over Christmas. He will have them around the first team to see what they’re like.
“That will determine whether he’s ready or not.”
Scotland under-21 international Ashby has made two appearances for West Ham this term – including a start in the Europa League this month.
West Ham youngster and Coufal understudy Ben Johnson is on the treatment table at present.
The Hammers sit fifth in the Premier League after this week’s defeat against the Gunners.
In other news, West Ham have made an approach to sign a striker and £16m could seal the deal.