West Ham United and Southampton are currently very much involved in the relegation battle as the Premier League campaign is nearing towards its concluding phase. These two sides are due to lock horns against each other at the London Stadium tomorrow, with both of them desperate to bag all three points and to take a big stride towards the rendezvous zone.
Team News
While Edimilson Fernandes has returned after his knee injury, Arthur Masuaku is also available after serving a six-match ban. Manuel Lanzini picked up a knock while catering to the needs of his national side during the international break and is unlikely to start.
There are concerns about the fitness of James Collins but he might be available for selection. Meanwhile, the Hammers are set to remain bereft of the services of Winston Reid, Sam Byram, Pedro Obiang and Jose Fonte owing to their injury.
Here is how we expect David Moyes to roll out his starting line-up against the Saints.
Goalkeeper
Joe Hart was picked over Adrian in the last league fixture, which was against Burnley, and the English custodian is set to get the green light to start once again. The competition for a place between the sticks is expected to get the best out of Hart.
Defence
A three-man defensive wall is likely to be rolled out by Moyes, with Angelo Ogbonna expected to start from the heart of the backline. To his right, Collins is anticipated to start whereas Aaron Cresswell is seemingly likely to get the nod to start from Ogbonna’s left side.
Wingbacks
Pablo Zabaleta, with volumes of experience under his belt, would be a handy asset for the London based outfit in the business end of the season. He has been quite shrewd from the right-wingback slot and is expected to continue from the aforesaid position.
From the left-wingback slot, Patrice Evra could make a start and there is hardly any doubt on the fact that he would be raring to go in order to make his presence felt in the English top flight once again.
Midfield
Mark Noble and Chiekhou Kouyate are expected to be engineered in the middle of the park. These two have to work together very closely and try to suffocate Southampton’s attackers. Besides, they need to gallop forward to create chances for their teammates.
Attack
Up front, Marko Arnautovic is expected to be chalked by Moyes in the upcoming fixture. He is arguably the most prized asset for West Ham United at the moment and he needs to deliver to salvage his side’s campaign.
Meanwhile, Michael Antonio is likely to operate from the right-wing whereas, from the left-wing, Joao Mario could be the one showcasing his attacking prowess.
