Predicted West Ham United Lineup To Face AFC Bournemouth In The Premier League
West Ham United were one of those Premier League outfits that surprised many following some exciting summer signings. But the consequences were dreadful and the Hammers parted ways with Slaven Bilic following a dismal inception of the new campaign. David Moyes was elected as the new gaffer and he upturned their season masterly despite a slow start.
The Scot has taken the Hammers to the 11th spot from the drop zone and they’re currently on a six-game unbeaten streak across all competitions that started with a 3-3 draw at Dean Court against this Saturday afternoon’s opponent AFC Bournemouth in the reverse fixture at the Olympic Stadium.
The Cherries are also battling it out for survival and are upbeat following a comeback win against Arsenal last weekend. The outing will thus be a cracking contest and the Hammers will bank on the home advantage to secure a favourable outcome.
Team News
The Hammers have a few significant injury absentees in form of Jose Fonte, Winston Reid, Edimilson Fernandes, Michail Antonio, Diafra Sakho and Andy Carroll. Javier Hernandez, however, is expected to return from his illness and make himself available for the Bournemouth test. Sam Byram picked up an injury against Shrewsbury Town in the midweek FA Cup rematch and is a doubt for the weekend clash.
Formation: 3-5-1-1
Moyes has mostly preferred a back-three formation and fielded a five-man midfield to provide enough defensive cover. He is expected to retain the same and a 3-5-1-1 formation is tipped to be fielded against the Cherries.
Manager: David Moyes
Adrian (GK)
West Ham’s first-choice custodian lost his place initially following the high-profile signing of Joe Hart. But the Spaniard has done well to regain his place and should start on Saturday afternoon.
James Collins (RCB)
The injuries of Jose Fonte and Winston Reid paved the way for Collins to earn first-team football and the veteran Welshman has done a comprehensive job in their three-man backline.
Angelo Ogbonna (CB)
The former Juventus centre-back has been quite consistent and impressive in the heart of the West Ham defence and is set to retain his place against their Saturday opponents.
Aaron Cresswell (LCB)
Cresswell has been shifted to the left-hand side of their ‘back three’ and has settled in well in his new role.
Pablo Zabaleta (RWB)
Pablo Zabaleta had a late introduction against Shrewsbury Town, replacing the injured Sam Byram, and the Argentine should be back in the starting lineup for the weekend fixture.
Cheikhou Kouyate (CM)
Kouyate has been a regular starter in West Ham midfield and his physical presence has helped the Hammers to bring back stability in the middle of the park.
Pedro Obiang (CM)
Seems to have settled in a box-to-box role finally and the player is carrying the ball in advanced areas from deep down the midfield with great composure and calmness.
Mark Noble (CM)
The skipper might not have enough quality to run the show but his commitment, work-rate and combativeness are undeniable and the player is also enjoying his game now under David Moyes.
Arthur Masuaku (LWB)
The most-improved name in the teamsheet who is troubling the opponent’s defensive line with his runs, outrageous footwork and attacking build-ups. Bournemouth will find it difficult to contain the Hammers’ left wing-back.
Manuel Lanzini (CAM)
The young Argentine midfield attacker is orchestrating moves from behind, scoring goals and providing assists up front. He is instrumental in West Ham’s attack and will be looking to continue his great run of form, against the Cherries.
Marko Arnautovic (ST)
The Austrian wingman has done a splendid job as Hammers’ No.9 and will cause problems to the Bournemouth defence.