Hurzeler: Enciso one of several forward options

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Head coach pleased with the alternatives available to him in the absence of Danny Welbeck.

Bruce Talbot

2024-12-20T06:00+00:00

Julio Enciso made a big impact when he came off the bench against Crystal Palace. 📷 by Paul Hazelwood.

Fabian Hurzeler said Julio Enciso deserved his chance against Crystal Palace and is one of the options he is considering in the absence of Danny Welbeck for tomorrow’s game against West Ham.

The Paraguayan impressed after coming on as a second-half sub in last Sunday’s 3-1 defeat, his first involvement in a Premier League game since the 2-2 draw with Wolves in October.

“I’m impressed by him because I know it's not an easy period especially for a young player like him and he suffered a lot,” said Hurzeler.

“But he changed his mind-set, and he trained unbelievably last week. He trained like a real team player, and he was there for the team. And when you train like this you always have a chance in my squad, and he deserved to play.

“He had an impact on Palace the game and now it's the same procedure this week. The players who train the best deserve the chance. It doesn't mean that you always will start, but you will receive a chance during the game. It’s always about performance, performance, performance.”

Welbeck is currently sidelined by injury but Hurzeler has other players who could fill that role in Albion’s attack.

“So, Georgie [Rutter] can play in this position. Julio can play in this position. João [Pedro] can play there. Evan [Ferguson] can play there. We have some great options and it’s about finding the right connection between the players. Who fits to who and trying to bring the best starting 11 to the pitch.”