London Derby: West Ham Lose Veltman Ahead of Millwall, Nuno Remains Optimistic

West Ham United are confirmed to be without centre-back Joel Veltman when they face Millwall in the London derby at The Den on Saturday (the day after tomorrow). Manager Nuno Espírito Santo confirmed that the Dutch player has not yet recovered from the injury that forced him off in the first half of last week's 6-0 victory over Wrexham. Veltman also missed The Hammers' 2-3 defeat to Fulham in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday (24/9).

The decision not to bring Veltman to The Den was made after the medical team assessed the risk as too high. Nevertheless, Nuno stated that the 32-year-old defender's condition continues to improve and there are no indications of a long-term injury. "Joel will not be involved tomorrow, but his condition is improving. Tomas Soucek and Alphonse Areola are also getting better," Nuno said in a press conference on Friday (27/9).

Veltman's absence is a blow as he has featured in all Championship matches this season. His presence is considered crucial to mitigate the pressure of an emotionally charged derby. Nuno will likely field a younger replacement or shift a full-back to cover the gap in the heart of the defence.

This London derby is under the spotlight as it's the first time the two teams have met since February 2012. Millwall are currently not in their best form, having won only once in their last five league matches. However, West Ham's poor record at The Den makes this match difficult to predict. Nuno stressed that his team must remain calm and disciplined, especially when the stadium atmosphere heats up.

"We have to control our emotions and focus on the game. Derbies always have a different dynamic," said Nuno, as quoted by Football FanCast.

On the other hand, the conditions of Soucek and Areola remain questionable. Both are reportedly making progress towards recovery, but Nuno has not guaranteed their availability. If both are absent, West Ham will have to rely on backup players to maintain balance in midfield and defence.

For Indonesian football fans, this match is interesting to follow as it provides a glimpse into the fierce competition in the Championship, a league often serving as a stepping stone to the Premier League. West Ham, currently topping the provisional standings, are ambitious to return to the top flight. Meanwhile, Millwall, known for their tough playing style, will try to leverage the full support of their fans at The Den.

A victory over Millwall would extend West Ham's unbeaten run to five matches and solidify their position at the top. However, history shows that The Den is not a friendly place for The Hammers. Nuno is thus challenged to devise a strategy without Veltman, while hoping Soucek and Areola can return soon. The question is, can West Ham end their 36-year curse at Millwall's home ground?