Relegation-threatened West Ham United are set to host London rivals, Chelsea, at the London Stadium tonight in their next Premier League fixture.
The Hammers have lost both their games following the resumption and are breathing just above the relegation zone on goal difference.
With the Blues desperate to cement their place inside the top-four spots in the league standings, it goes without saying that they will enter the game as firm favourites.
However, West Ham United had beaten Chelsea in the reverse fixture back in December and do have the potential to cause an upset once again.
West Ham United Team News
Sebastien Haller is doubtful for the London derby despite the fact that he resumed training this week following a hip injury. Arthur Masuaku is also back in training after an ankle problem, while Robert Snodgrass will be missed due to his back injury.
PREDICTED WEST HAM LINEUP VS CHELSEA (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
Lukasz Fabianski is expected to be stationed in goal as usual.
The Polish custodian will be tested to the limit by the star-studded offensive arsenal of their local rivals and it remains to be seen how he fares in the upcoming fixture against Frank Lampard’s upbeat entourage.
Defence
Angelo Ogbonna is likely to make his return to the West Ham lineup at the expense of Fabian Balbuena. He is expected to take his place alongside Issa Diop in central defence and they have to be wary of the likes of Tammy Abraham and Christian Pulisic.
Aaron Cresswell and Ryan Fredericks should keep their place at left-back and right-back, respectively, but these two need to elevate their work-rate significantly. They have to try and push Chelsea onto the back foot right from the beginning, failing which the visitors will have the ball in their court.
Midfield
Declan Rice made 6 tackles and completed 4 dribbles against Tottenham Hotspur last week and could start deep in the midfield. The 21-year-old will play a key role in intercepting Chelsea’s attacking endeavours and also needs to surge forward to create chances. Just a yard ahead of him, we expect Mark Noble and Tomas Soucek to start on either side in the West Ham lineup.
Attack
Michail Antonio is likely to get the green light to start to lead the line. He has the required pace on offer but it will be futile if he is left on his own upfront throughout the game.
In the event Sebastien Haller is passed fit, Moyes might look to employ a 4-4-2 which will keep the Chelsea defenders on their toes.
Jarrod Bowen will be the player to watch out for as he is incredibly skilful and quick and his directness could be vital for his employers. While Bowen could again operate as a right-winger, Pablo Fornals could keep his place on the opposite flank in the West Ham lineup.
PREDICTED WEST HAM LINEUP
Statistics Credits: WhoScored