Tottenham opportunity means West Ham fans should not overreact to Bilic comments

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Could Slaven Bilic be saving West Ham talent Toni Martinez for the Carabao Cup?

West Ham boss Slaven Bilic stated this week he had no intention of selection young talent Toni Martinez tonight against Brighton.

Martinez has scored consistently for the under-23s over the past 12 months and netted a hat-trick against Manchester United last week.

With striker Andy Carroll suspended, this was a potential chance for Martinez to get an opportunity, but Bilic told Football London: “We have good options. He will not be in the squad.”

West Ham fans were understandably disappointed by Bilic’s comments, with some exasperated at his refusal to at least put Martinez on the bench.

But with a potential opportunity just days away, it is best not to over react.

West Ham face Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, and this is the game where it would be a surprise if Martinez is not involved at all.

Both sides will want to win the game, but rotation is likely for both teams.

It gives Bilic the perfect opportunity to give Martinez a game, and while frustrating he will not be involved tonight, if he is being saved for Wednesday, then there is at least some logic to the manager’s decision, even if some disagree with it.