The Hammers are set to take on West Bromwich Albion in the Championship on Saturday afternoon at the London Stadium. Both sides are looking for a positive result as Nuno’s side faced their second defeat of the season in a 3-2 loss to Southampton, whereas West Brom drew with Preston at the Deepdale Stadium.
After last week’s outing, West Brom currently sit just one point away from West Ham’s tally as they seek to break through to the automatic spots, whilst Nuno Espirito Santo’s side could end the week at the top of the table, should results swing our way.
Regarding team news, West Ham have added to their injury list, as Konstantinos Mavropanos will not be available due to a knee injury he suffered against Southampton. Still, Joel Veltman is expected to return after missing last weekend. Other than that, Keiber Lamadrid is still expected to remain out, leaving all other known options available for Saturday’s crucial outing.
The Baggies will have a full fit squad except Toby Collyer, who suffered a hamstring injury less than two weeks ago.
Last week at the London Stadium was nothing short of an immense disappointment. Having such a disappointing start once again cost the Hammers a valuable chance to go top of the table and should a result not swing our way, West Brom could go above the Hammers heading into the next Matchweek.
The starting squad will be rather telling for the game. Starting Taty Castellanos up top alone tends to not work in favour meaning Pablo could return to being up top with, or without his fellow South American by his side. Additionally, Edvin Austbø has been knocking on the door of Manor Solomon’s starting position for a few weeks now, it’ll be interesting to see who gets the nod.
Finally, of course, West Ham will have a Mavropanos-sized hole to fill, which could have numerous options to choose from. The two likely options being the introduction of Airidas Golambeckis or Ollie Scarles at left back with Morato playing in his natural position.
Given their results this season, it is presumed that West Brom will line up in a 4-4-2 or a 4-4-1-1 at the London Stadium.
Nuno’s side haven’t had admirable luck this season when being officiated under top division referee’s and unfortunately for the Hammers, the official will be Premier League referee, Robert Jones.
Comments
Why do we keep getting Prem
Why do we keep getting Prem League refs to officiate our games? That's two on the bounce now. They just see the game differently. Championship football is a whole different animal to the PL. The officiating was diabolical against Southampton, why should this game be any different?
Veltman if back, can also do a sterling job at Centre Half for what it's worth.