Report: West Ham captain Mark Noble set to miss Brighton clash

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West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini will reportedly not have captain Mark Noble available for selection this weekend for the trip to Brighton in the Premier League.

The Hammers travel to Brighton on Saturday and will be looking to bounce back from a 5-0 crushing at the hands of Manchester City at the London Stadium.

Noble was absent from the Manchester City defeat with a dead leg and there is no timeframe yet on his return.

According to Football.London, the 32-year-old is “unlikely” to play at the weekend against Brighton.

It is understood that he could potentially be back in action by 24 August, which is when West Ham travel to Vicarage Road to face Watford in their third league fixture.

The central midfielder is arguably the most senior member of the squad and his leadership was missed on the opening day.

TBR’s View:

Noble’s absence was certainly felt in the heart of midfield against Manchester City, who ultimately ran riot and showed why they are in the hunt for a third consecutive league title.

The English midfielder is someone that wears his heart on his sleeve for the club and his commitment passes onto his teammates.

He struck up a great combination next to rising talent Declan Rice last season and he helps provide great defensive cover for the Hammers.

West Ham can expect to be on the front foot against Brighton with some of their talented attackers, but their opponents did beat Watford 3-0 in their opening fixture.

Pellegrini will have a decision on his hands when he’s got Rice, Noble and Jack Wilshere all available in midfield.