West Ham United manager Nuno Espírito Santo has selected a strong starting lineup for the club’s pre-season match against Southend United at Roots Hall on Saturday, 18 July 2026. Captain Jarrod Bowen leads the team, joined by key players like Dinos Mavropanos, Mads Hermansen, and Pablo Felipe, who scored in a recent training match against Colchester United.
Who is in the West Ham United starting XI?
The Hammers’ lineup includes a mix of experienced players and young talents. Jarrod Bowen, named captain for the match, is joined by Dinos Mavropanos, the club’s Hammer of the Year. Mads Hermansen starts in goal, with Taty Castellanos and Pablo Felipe leading the attack. New signing Keiber Lamadrid, who joined permanently this summer, also features, alongside Kyle Walker-Peters, Maximilian Kilman, and Mohamadou Kanté. Academy graduates Ollie Scarles and George Earthy, both part of the 2023 FA Youth Cup-winning squad, complete the midfield.
What are the key storylines for West Ham United?
This match marks West Ham United’s first competitive fixture in front of a crowd this pre-season, following a behind-closed-doors training game against Colchester United. Pablo Felipe, who scored in that match, will look to continue his strong pre-season form. The inclusion of young talents like Scarles and Earthy highlights the club’s focus on developing homegrown players. Meanwhile, summer signing Jett Murphy is among the substitutes, along with other Academy prospects like Ezra Mayers and Fin Herrick.
How can fans watch the match?
West Ham United fans can watch the match live on the club’s official website, whufc.com, with the stream starting at 2.45pm BST. Season Ticket Holders can access the stream for free by logging into their accounts, while other fans can purchase a pass for £5. The club will also provide post-match reaction, highlights, and analysis on its website, app, and social media channels.
What’s next for West Ham United?
After this pre-season fixture, West Ham United will continue their preparations for the 2026/27 Premier League season. The club’s next friendly is yet to be announced, but fans can expect more updates on the squad’s progress as the new campaign approaches.
