West Ham will travel to Vicarage Road this weekend to take on Watford. After being on the receiving end of Manchester City’s 5-0 demolition in the first game, the Hammers opened their season’s account against Brighton with a draw. However, they were far from impressive against the Seagulls as Brighton looked the better side.
A lot is expected out of Manuel Pellegrini after the club backed the manager heavily in the last three transfer windows. The Hammers won 4-1 at Vicarage Road in the previous season in their final encounter of the campaign. The Chilean manager would hope for a repeat of that performance. The Hornets meanwhile are still looking for their first point as well as their first goal of the season.
Team News: Captain Mark Noble is a doubt as he is yet to feature this season. Sebastien Haller should be available after missing the last game against Brighton. Felipe Anderson should also be able to shake off his thigh injury to be available for this encounter.
West Ham United Predicted Lineup Vs Brighton And Hove Albion
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Lukasz Fabianski has been a nailed-on starter ever since he joined last season and he will continue in goal once again. Issa Diop attracted some interest in the transfer market, but the Hammers have been able to keep him.
The former Toulouse centre back should start, and Fabian Balbuena should partner him. Ogbonna might have to miss out at the back. Arthur Masuaku is expected to start at left-back while Ryan Fredericks should start over Zabaleta at right-back.
Midfield
Declan Rice will keep his place as the defensive midfielder in the side. The other midfield spot is going to be a dilemma for the Chilean manager as Jack Wilshere looked below par in both the previous games and he was chucked off before the hour mark. Michail Antonio is naturally a wide player, but he might be given a go in midfield in this tie as he will bring impressive work rate and powerful running with the ball.
Manuel Lanzini is a guaranteed pick in midfield, and he will be in a slightly attacking role. Felipe Anderson should return to the side, and he could start on the left flank. Robert Snodgrass might keep his place on the right-hand side.
Attack
Sebastien Haller didn’t get many opportunities against City, but he did look sharp. The record summer signing should lead the line in this tie after missing out the last game.
