West Ham defensive trio ruled out of Liverpool clash

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Jose Fonte, Michail Antonio and Sam Byram have all been ruled out of West Ham’s clash with Liverpool on Saturday.

Centre-back Fonte suffered a foot injury in the 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace, while Antonio has a rib problem but is expected to return after the international break.

Byram, however, has a thigh injury which will keep him out of action for four to five weeks.

With Pablo Zabaleta suspended and James Collins still sidelined, the Hammers are facing a defensive crisis – but it will be eased slightly with the news that full-back Aaron Cresswell and centre-back Winston Reid will both be fit for Liverpool’s visit.

“It happened so quick,” manager Slaven Bilic told a media conference ahead of the game.

“A week ago, we were talking about having a full squad. Before Palace, I had a big headache because some of the guys that played against Spurs were really good.

“After Palace, we had all our players fit apart from Collins. Then this week we’ve had a few [injuries].

“It doesn’t look great in the defensive area of the team now [but] we’re in a position to have a good selection against Liverpool.”