An in-form West Ham United face Crystal Palace tomorrow at the London Stadium looking to make it 3 wins in a row.
Manuel Pellegrini’s troops have settled in well after a horrific start to the season. They are currently in the 13th place but can move into the Top 10 by the end of the week provided the other results go their way along with a win against Crystal Palace.
Palace are currently six points off the Hammers and sit in the 15th spot. They have failed to attain consistency but like West Ham, have players who can turn a game on its head on their day. The likes of Zaha and Townsend pose a considerable threat and despite their form and home comforts, the east Londoners cannot go into the match expecting an easy 90 minutes.
The Hammers have been hit hard with injuries this season. A number of players who would have expected to feature regularly in the first team have been sidelined for most of the season till now. But the players who have come in have done so with the right attitude and given Manuel some food for thought when the stars do get match-fit.
WEST HAM UNITED TEAM NEWS
Marko Arnautovic has joined the list of absentees. He is out for a month with a hamstring injury. Pellegrini did not give much clarity on Aaron Cresswell’s situation but he is unlikely to be risked tomorrow. Ryan Fredericks (shin), Andriy Yarmolenko (Achilles), Winston Reid (knee), Manuel Lanzini (knee) and Carlos Sanchez (knee) remain injured while Jack Wilshere will not take part against Palace.
PREDICTED WEST HAM UNITED LINEUP VS CRYSTAL PALACE (4-4-1-1)
DEFENCE
Lukasz Fabianski will start in goal. The Polish international had a fine outing against Cardiff saving a penalty at a crucial time and deserved to keep a clean sheet in the 3-1 win.
Pablo Zabaleta is expected to return at right-back after a much-needed rest. Fabian Balbuena should return to the starting XI after having to make do with a place on the bench in midweek. He is likely to partner Issa Diop with Ogbonna making way. Arthur Masuaku will continue at left-back if Creswell is deemed unfit to play, chances of which are high.
MIDFIELD
Declan Rice seems a sure shot starter and despite the busy schedule, his age and hunger should make sure he remains fresh. We might see Mark Noble drop out with Pedro Obiang coming into the side.
Felipe Anderson is in terrific form and with Arnautovic out, the Brazilian has to take a fair share of the load upon himself. On the opposite flank, we might see Robert Snodgrass continue. Diangana and Antonio provide further options to Pellegrini.
ATTACK
Lucas Perez seems to have earned himself a starting spot with a well-taken brace. He will start the match with Javier Hernandez likely to partner him up top.
