Walcott and Richarlison absence means Lookman has big chance

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Everton youngster Ademola Lookman could be set for his first start of the season against West Ham – and may have the chance to answer some critics in the process.

The international break is upon us, but the Toffees face the Hammers on September 16.

One man who is definitely out of the game is Richarlison.

The Brazilian lost his head against Bournemouth and picked up a needless red card.

And Theo Walcott hobbled out at the Vitality Stadium, and his hip injury has been described by Marco Silva as ‘a problem’ (as cited by the Metro).

The pair have been Everton’s stand out players so far this season.

They will both be missed against Manuel Pellegrini’s side, but perhaps it presents a chance for Lookman to get back in the fans’ good books.

Lookman’s time?

Last season the Englishman was loaned out to German side RB Leipzig.

He made a decent impression there and they wanted to sign him up permanently this summer, as reported by Sky Sports.

Some fans have taken that to mean that the player is disinterested in playing for Everton.

As a result, Lookman has copped a fair amount of flak on social media, with some happy to see him out of the starting XI.

That said, there are also some people who sympathise with him and feel he should get more game time

But it could be his time to shine with Walcott and Richarlison both out.

Even if Walcott recovers, there’s a good chance he’ll replace the £40 million signing from Watford.

What he brings

Lookman is an excellent wide player who is fast and direct.

He also has a good eye for goal as demonstrated by his five strikes in 11 Bundesliga matches.

The former Charlton Athletic prospect is undeniably talented and very much suited to the English top flight.

It’s up to him now to use this potential chance to win the unconvinced section of fans over.

He came on against Huddersfield last weekend, suggesting he is in Silva’s plans. Perhaps a wounded West Ham represent the possible turning of a corner for the player.