Having lost four games this season already, West Ham United are struggling close to the bottom of the points table but they managed to pick up a victory over Swansea City, just before the international break. They will look to keep the momentum when they travel to Turf Moor to take on Sean Dyche’s Burnley.
The Clarets have lost just once this season and are proving hard to beat. They are not going to be easy to face at home and will keep West Ham United on their toes. Slaven Bilic will look for nothing less than all three points and here is the predicted lineup he might field for this tie:
Team News:
In early team news, James Collins is the only player ruled out for this game. Pedro Obiang and Edimilson Fernandes are closing in on returns and may even make the bench this weekend.
Expected lineup (4-4-2):
Defence:
While Joe Hart has not been at his best, he remains Bilic’s first choice in goal and should keep his place in the side for this tie. The manager should go with a traditional backline and stick with Winston Reid and Jose Fonte and their experience against a strong Burnley attack.
While Aaron Creswell has been effective at left-back, Pablo Zabaleta is still struggling to adapt to the needs of the new club. The duo, however, has done well in the previous game and is expected to keep their places as full-backs for West Ham.
Midfield:
With not too many injuries to worry about, the manager has loads of options for his midfield to choose from. He is expected to stick with Chiekhou as the deepest of the midfielders. He has the tenacity to keep Burnley attackers away from danger.
He should be partnered by Manuel Lanzini, to add some creativity to the midfield. The Argentine can play a floating role, where he is expected to add to attack more than at the back. English beast Michail Antonio is expected to be played on the right side of the midfield-4 while newbie Marko Arnautovic is expected to take the place on the other flank, making West Ham a balanced side in the middle.
Attack:
Former Liverpool ace Andy Carroll has not been at his best this season but remains as dangerous. He is expected to lead the attack for West Ham today alongside Javier Hernandez, who will hope to form a partnership with the English giant in the attack.
Here is how they might line up:
