West Ham finally managed to secure back-to-back Premier League victories under Manuel Pellegrini this week after following their fine win against Newcastle by sweeping aside Cardiff City at the London Stadium.
The result gives the Hammers a strong platform to build upon during the busy festive season that lies ahead but there are still some issues in the squad – and a major injury blow was sustained this week.
Marko Arnautovic hobbled off in the first half of the win against Cardiff, with his replacement Lucas Perez scoring a brace, and it has now been confirmed that the Hammers will be without their star man for ‘a short while’.
With West Ham’s options in the final third already lacking significant depth, with Andy Carroll only just returning from injury and Javier Hernandez being inconsistent, it provides a major blow for Pellegrini’s side in a period that could make or break their season.
However, not all the fans on social media were distraught by the news and some provided a positive spin to the update. We have gathered some of their comments below.
Cheers son's crying. Nice one
— Matt Ware (@Matthew_Ware_II) December 5, 2018
Feels like he’s been nursing an injury for a few games and it’s been hampering his performances. A blessing in disguise in my book
— Ant Weeks (@weetbix20) December 5, 2018
Strong and fit, rather than strong and quick if we can choose…
— Robocop.Picareta (@RPicareta) December 5, 2018
We are going to miss the big man, time for others to step forward and show some of the passion and ability this man shows every performance.
— Ian Blake (@IanBlak43391929) December 5, 2018
Get better and take the time to heal. Don’t let the urgency and hunger to play to win. You want to keep going for the long run!!! Good luck Crack!!!
— El Chos (@ElChos) December 5, 2018
Tbh he’s got injured at the right time, easier games and our backup strikers are scoring
— JOE CRONIN⚒ (@joecronin1999) December 5, 2018
It was time to rest a bit Aunie. You’ll come back stronger. Time off is good sometimes to think and do some changes personally.
— Luna (@Lunachileusa) December 5, 2018
Get well soon arnie time to step up little pea and Perez
— Steve (@49whufc_smh) December 5, 2018
Previous article by Josh Challies
‘Pure class’, ‘Simply superb’: Some West Ham fans react after favourite impresses again