West Ham United would like to pick up from where they left in the last match. The Hammers shrugged off their earlier hiccups and registered their first win against Huddersfield Town in the last match.
Until then, Bilic’s future was looking in danger as he could have been the second manager to be shown the door following Frank de Boer’s ouster, but the 2-0 win against the Terriers has given him some much-needed breathing space.
The results were quite surprising as the Hammers were billed as one of the most balanced sides who could pose a serious challenge to the big teams but none of their four signings have been influential so far and Bilic will be hoping that they start to click as soon as possible.
The red card to Marko Arnautovic has done a bit of a damage but they have come back from it and will hope to keep going strong.
Predicted 3-4-2-1 West Ham United Starting Lineup against West Bromwich Albion
Defence
Joe Hart remains the weak point for the Hammers. The on-loan keeper from Manchester City is set to have a tough match as Tony Pulis would want his players to pressurize the English International.
Also, The Baggies possesses a significant threat from set pieces so the Hammers’ keeper has to be very alert in dead ball situations. Bilic opted for a three-man defence and will stick to it. Jose Fonte, Winston Reid and James Collins will be guarding the Hammers goal.
Midfield
Pablo Zabaleta showed in the last match he still has it in him. The Argentine international was very mobile through the right flank and provided the much-needed depth to the side. He is likely to keep his place intact.
Aaron Creswell too did significantly well and will help the players to link up ahead. Pedro Obiang will be at the holding midfield role while Cheikhou Kouyate will do the pressing and pushing in the middle of the pitch.
Attack
Arnautovic is back from suspension but he will have to wait for first-team game time as Bilic is unlikely to change his winning combination. Javier Hernandez will start in more of a false nine role just behind the main striker. Alongside him will be Michail Antonio who was arguably West Ham’s player of the last season.
Andy Carroll is fit and raring to go. The lanky forward will start up front.
