West Ham United will look to get a move on now and strengthen their case for a Top 10 finish. The Hammers have gone through a roller-coaster ride this season. After an excellent campaign, which tailed off towards the end, they were expected to have an even better one and make the step up to be consistently competing with the Top clubs for a regular spot in and around the Top 6. With a new stadium and a Europa League campaign to look forward to, the stage was set.
But it all fell apart all at once as an exit in the Europa League qualification stage was followed by a terrible start to the domestic campaign as they found themselves in and around the drop zone. But since then a lot of water has flown under the bridge and Slaven Bilic has overseen a dramatic turnaround in fortune and the saga involving star-man Payet’s departure has galvanised the whole group. Currently in the 10 spot, apart from a match against Chelsea, they have a favourable schedule coming up which will give them a chance to move further up and solidify their League position.
They will travel to the Vicarage Road knowing Watford are no pushovers and the Hornets have already defeated Arsenal and Manchester United this season and both teams will believe them can win the game.
PREDICTED WEST HAM UNITED XI VS WATFORD (4-2-3-1)
DEFENCE
Randolph is likely to be stationed between the sticks and has to come up with the goods. The Hammers have a situation with their goalkeeping spots and the players will look to perform when given a chance or else face the axe in summer. Kouyate is likely to continue as the makeshift right-back and will use his solidity and physical prowess to dominate the right flank. Winston Reid and Jose Fonte will start as the centre-back pair while Creswell is likely to be declared fit by the time the match comes around and will start at left-back.
MIDFIELD
Bilic might employ a double pivot which will see Mark Noble and Pedro Obiang line-up once again. The duo has been impressive in recent weeks and need to keep the tempo going. In the No.10 role, new signing Robert Snodgrass is likely to line up and has to provide the creative spark and will look to form an understanding with Carroll.
ATTACK
Lanzini will be on the left wing and will look to carry on his resurgence in form while the excellent Antonio will be on the opposite flank. Andy Carroll is expected to be fit for the encounter and will start up front.
