A host of players with first-team experience are set to take to the field for West Ham United's reserves on Tuesday evening.

Kevin Keen's side take on West Bromwich Albion at Bishop's Stortford's Woodside Park (7pm kick-off), with James Collins, Calum Davenport, Walter Lopez, Kyel Reid and Freddie Sears all set to feature.

Collins' inclusion will be a massive boost to first-team boss Gianfranco Zola, who has been forced to field Lucas Neill at centre-back in his first three matches in charge.

The sale of Anton Ferdinand and injuries to Danny Gabbidon and James Tomkins have left the Italian with only Matthew Upson and Davenport available as recognised centre-halves.

And with Davenport having played very little football over the past nine months after breaking his neck during a loan spell at Watford, the Wales international's return will be welcomed by Zola.

Uruguay international left-back Lopez, who made his first-team debut in last week's Carling Cup third round defeat at Watford, is also set to start, as are winger Reid and striker Sears.

The remaining places in Keen's side will be filled by youngsters, including promising Czech goalkeeper Marek Stech and England Under-19 winger Junior Stanislas.

However, the match will come too soon for former Spain international striker Diego Tristan, who is set to join the Hammers on trial on Tuesday.

Keen's side lost their opening Barclays Premier Reserve League fixture 2-0 at Chelsea a fortnight ago.

Admission to Tuesday's game is free for season ticket holders.

[Guardian-Series]

Subscribe to the post comments feeds or Leave a trackback