West Ham United vs Brentford Preview: Team News, Predicted Lineups, Key Battles, Prediction

Struggling West Ham United will host 11th-placed Brentford in the Premier League this Saturday. Despite the arrival of Graham Potter, the Hammers remain 16th in the table, 10 points clear of the relegation zone. With just one win in their last seven matches, their poor run of form could push them further into danger.

The Hammers had an opportunity to gain momentum after taking the lead against Chelsea but squandered it in a 2-1 defeat. Cracks are widening across the squad, from defence to attack, and player confidence appears to be at an all-time low.

Potter, brought in to steady the ship after replacing the ill-fated Julen Lopetegui, looks out of his depth and is under immense pressure to turn things around at London Stadium.

The Hammers are desperate for a breakthrough and will hope it comes against Thomas Frank’s Brentford, who suffered a 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in their last match.

The loss highlighted the Bees’ inconsistency in recent games, but they possess a quality squad capable of competing with bigger teams. Spearheaded by Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo, Brentford’s direct attacking play, coupled with a strong defensive unit, makes them a dangerous side.

They will look to recover from their setback against Spurs and push for a top-half finish with a result against West Ham.

West Ham United vs Brentford Team News

Both teams have several injury concerns. West Ham will be without Niclas Füllkrug, Michail Antonio, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Crysencio Summerville. Meanwhile, Lucas Paquetá and Edson Álvarez are doubtful.

Brentford will be missing Igor Thiago, Aaron Hickey, Josh Dasilva, Gustavo Nunes, and Rico Henry due to injuries. Goalkeeper Mark Flekken remains a doubt with a chest issue.

West Ham United vs Brentford Predicted Line-ups

West Ham United (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Alphonse Areola
Defenders: Konstantinos Mavropanos, Max Kilman, Aaron Cresswell, Emerson
Midfielders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Andy Irving, Tomáš Souček, Carlos Soler
Forwards: Mohammed Kudus, Jarrod Bowen

Brentford (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Hákon Valdimarsson
Defenders: Kristoffer Ajer, Nathan Collins, Sepp van den Berg, Keane Lewis-Potter
Midfielders: Christian Nørgaard, Vitaly Janelt, Mikkel Damsgaard
Forwards: Bryan Mbeumo, Kevin Schade, Yoane Wissa

West Ham United vs Brentford Key Battles

Bowen vs. Ajer

Jarrod Bowen has carried West Ham’s attacking responsibility this season and will look to make an impact against Brentford. The English forward has contributed to 10 goals and remains a major threat. Kristoffer Ajer, known for his aerial ability, must track Bowen’s intelligent movement and dangerous positioning inside the box.

Wissa vs. Kilman

Yoane Wissa has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers this season, troubling many defences. The Congolese forward will aim to exploit West Ham’s defensive frailties, while Max Kilman will be tasked with keeping him at bay.

Prediction: West Ham 1-1 Brentford

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