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West Ham will be without Javier Hernandez for this weekend's clash with Manchester United, according to Claret & Hugh.

What's the word?

Manuel Pellegrini's side have turned a corner in recent weeks by beating Everton and holding Chelsea to a goalless draw but another stern test awaits this weekend as the Hammers host Manchester United at the London Stadium.

The East London side were without Mexico striker Javier Hernandez for those two games as he spent time on the sidelines due to a bout of glandular fever, although he has now returned to training and could feature in the coming weeks.

However, Claret & Hugh states that Hernandez will not be available to face his former side this weekend as the fixture against the Red Devils comes too soon, but he is in line to make his return at the start of October for the Friday night clash with Brighton.

An important boost?

Javier Hernandez has not set the world alight since returning to the Premier League from Bayer Leverkusen last summer but his return from injury is a crucial boost for Pellegrini's side, who lack striking options.

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Marko Arnautovic has led the line for the Hammers this season, impressing with a return of three goals in five matches, whilst summer signing Lucas Perez has sat on the bench but is yet to score since his move from Arsenal.

With Andy Carroll still sidelined, the return of Hernandez will provide West Ham with a natural forward who could provide the Hammers with a major improvement.

While it is unlikely he will knock Arnautovic out of his position in the side, he could establish himself as a 'super-sub' once again in what is surely his last-chance saloon to prove he still has a future with the club ahead of the January transfer window.