Manuel Lanzini could miss all of next season with knee injury

Missing the World Cup was a cruel blow for West Ham's Manuel Lanzini

Named in Argentina's squad for the the tournament, the 25-year-old picked up a knee injury a week before the tournament kicked off in Russia. Although it was soon clear the injury was to his ligaments and therefore a lengthy spell on the sidelines was expected, it was still anticipated that he would return to action at some point during the 2018/19 season. This, according to a report by The Mirror, may not be the case at all. A report by Darren Lewis suggests the extent of the injury is so severe Lanzini could be set to miss the entirety of next season. West Ham are said to have been told the injury is a 'cruciate plus', which could keep him out of action for up to 15 months. Understandably, the player is said to be distraught after being informed. The news will come as a significant blow to the club's newly appointed manager Manuel Pellegrini, who will now be forced to try and find a replacement for the Argentina international. The same report mentions Jack Wilshere as a possibility, although adds that West Ham have concerns over the Arsenal midfielder's fitness.