West Ham United’s sensational winning run of four games was put to a halt by Watford last weekend. But, the Hammers will be looking to get back to winning ways when they face Southampton at St.Mary’s Stadium tonight.
However, the Saints have performed well under new coach Ralph Hasenhuttl, winning their last two matches in the league and will be confident of their chances against West Ham.
West Ham team news
Manuel Pellegrini continues to deal with a long injury list with the likes of Winston Reid, Manuel Lanzini, Andriy Yarmolenko and Marko Arnautovic ruled out. The Hammers will also miss out on the services of Jack Wilshere and Ryan Fredericks while Fabian Balbuena, Lucas Perez and Javier Hernandez are doubtful.
Predicted West Ham United lineup vs Southampton (4-4-2)
Defence
The potential absence of key defender Balbuena will be a huge blow for West Ham even though they have the experienced Angelo Ogbonna to deputize for the injured Paraguayan.
The former Juventus defender should be starting alongside Issa Diop in central defence but might struggle to settle into the game, having made only six league appearances this season.
With Fredericks out injured, Pellegrini is short of options in the right-back position. Therefore, Pablo Zabaleta is likely to once again retain his place in the starting lineup, with Arthur Masuaku being deployed in the left-back slot.
Lukasz Fabianski will be the man between the sticks, looking to improve his already impressive statistics in the league this season.
Midfield
With so many midfielders out injured, Pellegrini might once again deploy a 4-4-2 formation, with Declan Rice sitting at the base, alongside the highly experienced Mark Noble.
Rice, however, has been one of the rising stars in the Premier League this season, averaging over 2 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per game – indicating his solid nature in the defensive midfield role, which could be important this week as the 19-year-old looks to provide cover to the backline.
Elsewhere, Robert Snodgrass can continue his role on the right while Felipe Anderson is expected to continue to feature on the opposite flank.
Attack
Michail Antonio is largely expected to retain his place in a 2-man frontline. But, in the likely absence of Javier Hernandez, the 28-year-old could partner Andy Carroll in attack.
The former Liverpool star is yet to make a start in the league so far, despite featuring in all of West Ham’s last five league matches. But, with Arnautovic ruled out and Hernandez lacking fitness, it could be an ideal opportunity for him to impress Pellegrini this week.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
