‘Awful’ attacker dropped as Gary O’Neil braves four changes for ‘El Sackico’ - Wolves predicted XI vs West Ham

The pressure has never been greater on O’Neil’s shoulders with higher-ups at Wolves now considering potential managerial replacements.

Wanderers are three points deep in the Premier League relegation zone having picked up just nine points from 14 matches. Even a win away at West Ham won’t be enough to escape the bottom three, unless Crystal Palace are thumped by Manchester City.

Wolves suffered an embarrassing 4-0 defeat away at Everton on Wednesday, so O’Neil is bound to make several changes. The head coach could perhaps revert to a flat back four to simplify things, while Mario Lemina might move back into his more natural central midfield position.

Other dilemmas, including who to start on each flank, will also be considered by Wolves’ under-fire manager. Here’s the lineup we predict O’Neil will name at London Stadium against Julen Lopetegui, another coach at risk of the sack.

Wolves predicted lineup vs West Ham

GK - Jose Sa: The goalkeeper has forced his way back as the first choice ahead of summer signing Sam Johnstone.

RB - Nelson Semedo: The Portuguese is back from suspension and simply has to start every game he’s fit for.

CB - Craig Dawson: On the back of two own goals most players would be dropped but Wolves don’t have enough defensive options at the moment.

CB - Toti Gomes: A useful option in defence, both at left-back and centre-back, the 25-year-old will probably move into the latter role if it’s a flat four.

LB - Rayan Ait-Nouri: The Algerian hasn’t been in his best form but he’s certainly got the quality to change games.

CM - Mario Lemina: The new skipper has played in an array of positions both this season and last but he’s probably best when sweeping in at the base of midfield.

CM - Joao Gomes: Effective with his break-up play, Gomes is one of those who cares most in this Wolves side.

RW - Jean-Ricner Bellegarde: The 26-year-old provides good energy down the right and he’s well rested. Goncalo Guedes was awful at Goodison.

CAM - Matheus Cunha: The man of the match away at Fulham with two goals and an assist, Cunha will be hoping for another strong display in London.

LW - Rodrigo Gomes: A summer signing with plenty of promise, there have been good signs in Gomes’ performances to date.

ST - Jorgen Strand Larsen: The Norwegian has made five goal contributions in his last five games and he’s proving to be a practical outlet up front.