West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini backs Roberto with Lukasz Fabianski set for scan

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West Ham United manager Manuel Pellegrini has backed deputy goalkeeper Roberto, with Lukasz Fabianski looking a potential stint on the sidelines.

The Polish stopper was forced off against Bournemouth on Saturday and it has transpired he is contending with a hip problem.

The 34-year-old was replaced between the sticks by summer signing Roberto, and Pellegrini has every faith in him to provide able cover for West Ham’s brilliant number one.

He said (club’s official website): “Lukasz felt a problem in a muscle in his hip when he tried to kick the ball. We need to know more about it with a medical examination on Sunday.

“Goalkeeper is an important player, but I trust a lot in Roberto also. Roberto played well, he’s a very good goalkeeper and we will see what will happen with Lukasz’s injury and how many weeks he will be out.”

TBR’s view

Roberto came in for a lot of criticism after his showing against Oxford United and was unconvincing on Saturday.

Fans will trust Pellegrini’s judgement but he needs a good performance to convince the masses.

Fabianski will be a major miss for the Hammers, but the Spaniard now has the chance to prove himself.