West Ham United are set to clash with Huddersfield Town for their Premier League fixture at John Smith’s Stadium tomorrow. The Hammers are coming off a questionable draw against Shrewsbury Town in their FA Cup third round draw away from home. Moyes rotated the squad around on the offensive end and somehow could not break the opposition defence. Joe Hart described his team’s performance as terrible especially after being so impressive against Tottenham just a couple of days back.
The Hammers, who made four changes from Thursday’s league draw against Tottenham, looked lethargic in their third match in six days and only threatened by half-chances from Andre Ayew.
But all is not lost for Moyes as he gets a second chance to redeem himself next week at home. Currently scouring the transfer market for possible quality additions, the former Everton manager is expected to field his full strength squad for this fixture.
The Terriers have impressed so far into the campaign with two points above Moyes’ side and are eyeing a top half finish rather than falling into a relegation battle by the season end. Leicester City walked all over them in their last league tie with a dominant 3-0 win, and David Wagner will set up a well-structured side, reluctant to drop any more points.
Moyes is expected to field his men in the 3-5-2 formation.
Defence
Joe Hart might return to the lineup with Adrian having featured in the fixture against Tottenham. The 30-year-old will have to put his inconsistencies behind and lead the line from the back.
Winston Reid picked up a knock in the Cup tie and might not feature for this fixture. Declan Rice, Angelo Ogbonna and Aaron Cresswell are the predicted starters in the defensive back three.
Midfield
Pablo Zabaleta has been the best option from the right flank and might feature again with Arthur Masuaku on the left. The duo have a lot of responsibilities in stretching the side’s attacks and will be expected to do the same against a defensive Huddersfield.
Mark Noble and Pedro Obiang are expected to pair up in the holding midfield role. Obiang has struggled to find his feet in recent weeks but might be well suited to play the more defensive role alongside Noble.
Manuel Lanzini is the club’s best option in the attacking midfield role and should get the nod for this fixture.
Attack
Marko Arnautovic’s tight hamstring has healed and is expected to return to the lineup alongside, Javier Chicharito Hernandez. Arnautovic can always drop into deeper position and link up with Lanzini and Chicharito.
