West Ham United will look to return to winning ways when they travel to the Vitality Stadium to face Bournemouth. The Hammers will be boosted by the return of Michail Antonio. Antonio missed the last match against Chelsea as he got the marching orders from the referee in the previous match against Watford.
Slaven Bilic’s remote hopes of competing for the European places were dealt a huge blow in their last game as they suffered a 2-1 loss at the hand of the table toppers.
Bournemouth are currently winless in the last eight matches although they played out a 1-1 draw against Manchester United after being reduced to ten men. A win against the Hammers at home will give them a breather as Eddie Howe’s side are gradually inching towards the relegation zone. West Ham won the reverse fixture this season and will try to do a double when they will visit the Cherries.
The Cherries have dropped points in the last five home games but cannot afford any more slip-ups as it would pile more misery on Howe. Bournemouth started the season on a very good note but a sudden drop in their form has put their side in severe danger. On the other hand, West Ham have bounced back from their awful from. The Hammers had flirted with the relegation zone but a sudden upturn in form saw them rise to the top half of the table.
Team News And Predicted Lineups
West Ham United (4-2-3-1)
Antonio is eligible to play after serving his suspension and will most likely slot in on the right wing. Winston Reid and Jose Fonte are expected to recover from their knocks before the match. Angelo Ogbonna continues to recuperate from his injury.
Randolph; Creswell, Fonte, Reid, Kouyate; Noble, Obiang; Antonio, Lanzini, Snodgrass; Carroll
Bournemouth (4-2-3-1)
The Cherries have a number of injury concerns. Simon Francis and Junior Stanislas are currently suffering from injuries and won’t be available for selection. Tyron Mings has been banned for five matches and Baily Cargill will most likely take his place.
Boruc; Daniels, Cargill, Cook, Smith; Arter, Gosling; Pugh, Wilshere, Fraser; Afobe
KEY PLAYERS
West Ham United- Much will depend on how Antonio will perform. The 26 year old England international has played in almost every position for the Hammers this season and will like to make an impact on the game.
Bournemouth– Jack Wilshere will have the chance to impress again. The Arsenal loanee has been pretty decent for the Cherries this season but his one special display has been missing thus far.
Odds
West Ham United- 2.80
Draw- 3.50
Bournemouth- 2.60
