West Ham United will lock horns with Southampton on Sunday night, hoping to pick up a positive result on their home turf. The Hammers will be heading into the game on the back of an impressive 3-1 win against West Bromwich Albion, whereas Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men recorded a 2-0 loss against Leeds United.
David Moyes will probably opt for his usual 4-2-3-1 formation against the Saints; however, the Scottish tactician is expected to make a couple of changes for the upcoming home encounter.
4-2-3-1 West Ham United Predicted Lineup To Face Southampton
Defence
Darren Randolph will continue to operate in between the sticks in the absence of Lukasz Fabianski. The Irish international will hope to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Sunday.
Issa Diop will replace Angelo Ogbonna to form his customary centre-half partnership with Craig Dawson at the heart of West Ham’s backline.
Vladimir Coufal is a guaranteed starter at the right wing-back spot, whereas Aaron Cresswell will start on the other flank as the left-back. Up against Southampton, the full-backs will be expected to operate high up the pitch.
Midfield
Tomas Soucek will continue to feature alongside Declan Rice in the holding midfield position, with the latter being assigned with more of a defensive role to shield the home side’s back-four.
Jesse Lingard will slot in the attacking midfield position to complete the midfield trio. The England international will be determined to engineer some clear-cut goal scoring chances for the front men.
Jarrod Bowen will have to settle for a place on the bench but might come on in the latter stages of the game if needed.
Attack
Pablo Fornals and Said Benrahma are expected to take up the wide positions, playing on the right and left-wing respectively.
Michail Antonio will lead the line for the hosts against Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men on Sunday. The English striker will be hoping to make the most of his chances when he faces off against the Southampton defence that has conceded seven goals in their last five league games.