With 30 points on board, West Ham United look safe at the 13th place in the points table but the fact that they are just three points away from the drop zone shows that they have plenty of work still left to do this season. They should quickly put behind the 4-1 defeat at Anfield and should look to take maximum points this weekend, when they travel to Liberty Stadium, to face a Swansea City side, that is only just making its way out of the drop zone.
A win in this tie could push Swans level with West Ham but the Hammers can break into the top half of the table and will settle for nothing less than a victory. Here is the predicted lineup David Moyes might field for this tie:
Team News:
The injury list seems to be reducing for Moyes but he still has four players ruled out for this game. Edimilson Fernandes, Arthur Masuaku, Andy Carroll and Pedro Obiang are all absent for this tie. Patrice Evra took a knock against Liverpool but should be available for selection this weekend.
Expected lineup (3-4-3):
Defence:
Adrian has kept Joe Hart out of the first team for a while now and should retain his place in the side, even after shipping in four goals at Anfield. Angelo Ogbonna has been ever present in the backline for West Ham this season and should start at the heart of the defence this weekend as well.
James Collins has also done a decent job on the right side of the backline and should start alongside Aaron Cresswell, who is now playing as a CB more than he is as a full-back.
Midfield:
With players returning from injury, Moyes has a number of options for his midfield but Chiekhou Kouyate and his mettle have been crucial to his system and the Senegalese should start at the heart of the midfield against the Swans. He should be partnered by Mark Noble, who needs to step up his game, for his side to take anything from this weekend.
Patrice Evra made his West Ham debut at Anfield and did well against an in-form attack. He could keep his place as a wing back on the left flank, adding some creativity to the midfield. Pablo Zabaleta and his experience could be crucial on the other flank as West Ham look to nullify Swansea, before trying to beat their defence.
Attack:
Marko Arnautovic was West Ham’s best player against the Reds last weekend. He should continue to lead the attack for his side but could be accompanied by Michail Antonio and Joao Mario on the wings. Manuel Lanzini should be given a break, after failing to impress recently.
Here is how they might line up:
