West Ham United are currently fifth in the Premier League and are only behind on goal difference with fourth-placed Arsenal. Any talks of European football might be premature, but Manuel Pellegrini will know that he has the squad to challenge for the Europa League atleast genuinely. After a draw against Bournemouth last weekend, the Hammers will play host to Crystal Palace at the London Stadium.
The Eagles will come into this clash on the back of an impressive win over Norwich City. Roy Hodgson’s men always look a threat on the counter, and the Hammers will be aware that they will be in for a close encounter at home. West ham are unbeaten in their last six league games, and they will look to continue that run this weekend as well.
Team News: Lukasz Fabianski is going to be a big miss for Pellegrini, and he could be out for two to three months. Apart from that, there are no major injury concerns for the Hammers.
West Ham United Predicted Lineup Vs Crystal Palace
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
With Fabianski out, Roberto Jiménez Gago is likely to deputise for him in goal. Issa Diop will continue as the first choice centre back. Angelo Ogbonna should partner him. Fabian Balbuena has looked a bit rusty after his injury setback, so he is likely to miss out once again.
Aaron Cresswell has scored some crucial goals of late, and his attacking endeavour down the left is a significant plus. He should start in the left-back position. Former Fulham fullback Ryan Fredericks should occupy the right-back spot to complete the back four.
Midfield
Declan Rice will look to shield the back four when he starts in a deeper role in midfield. Veteran club captain Mark Noble is still showing what he is capable of and will begin in the middle. Manuel Lanzini could start in place of Fornals as the attacking midfielder.
Felipe Anderson is an obvious pick on the left flank, and his pace and directness can cause a lot of worry for the Palace defence. Andriy Yarmolenko should be able to keep his place ahead of Robert Snodgrass on the right-wing. He has been in good form of late, so we don’t see the need for changing him.
Attack
Sébastien Haller has looked the part so far in West Ham colours. His hold up play seems to be top-notch. He should lead the line once again.
