In-form Crystal Palace will host Slaven Bilic’s West Ham United on Saturday at Selhurst Park. The Hammers will be desperate for a win in order to finally kick start their season which has been dismal so far. The Hammers had high hopes for the 2016-17 campaign after moving from the Boleyn Ground to London Stadium, but they haven’t taken to their new home and a poor run of form have seen the east London club exit the Europa League and collect just four points from their opening seven games.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace are flying high this season sitting eighth on the table with 11 points from seven games. They are unbeaten in their last five Premier League encounters winning three and drawing two in the process.
The Eagles are on the back of a 1-1 stalemate against Everton prior to the international break while West Ham ended their losing streak with a 1-1 draw against Boro.
Both sides need wins but for very different reasons. Here is the predicted Crystal Palace lineup against West Ham United.
DEFENCE
Steve Mandanda will start between the sticks ahead of Welsh custodian Wayne Hennessey. Joel Ward is likely to continue in the right-back position. The South London club are likely to miss their best defender and club captain Scott Dann against West Ham and that is one big void to fill.
Former West Ham defender James Tomkins is likely to get a start at the heart of the defence alongside veteran Irishman Damien Delaney. We expect Martin Kelly to fill in the left-back position with Pape Souaré missing through a long-term injury.
MIDFIELD
James McArthur is likely to continue in defensive midfield. The Scotsman has done really well at the base of midfield for the Eagles this season with his defensive and offensive abilities. Joe Ledley has been impressive this season as well and is likely to keep his place in the middle of the park.
Jason Puncheon has been one of the standout performers for the Eagles this campaign and should keep his place in midfield. Despite being fit, there is no place for Yohan Cabaye in the starting XI at the moment but he can make a big impact off the bench.
ATTACK
Christian Benteke is in stunning form at the moment and will keep his place up front without a doubt. Wilfred Zaha and Andros Townsend are likely to keep their respective places on the flanks.
