West Ham v Southampton: Combined XI Ahead of Sunday's Clash

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Full Backs

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Cedric Soares of Southampton in action during the Premier League match between Southampton and Swansea City at St Mary’s Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /

Left Back – Ryan Bertrand

Had Cresswell not been injured then this is a different story. As it is the Englishman takes the spot above Masuaku who is yet to prove his Premier League credentials.

He’s come on leaps and bounds since leaving Chelsea and has been pushing Rose in the England setup. He’s definitely Southampton’s top left back and he will continue to improve in the coming years.

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Should he be keeping Cresswell out of the England setup? No. He’s less able defensively despite his pace and I think the Hammers’ man adds something special with the cross he can deliver with his left foot from free kicks and from open play.

Right Back – Cedric Soares

He’s a solid right back, but here he’s more in because a lack of a better option.

Byram will be a good right back when he gets regular game-time alongside a solid defensive partnership, but right now he is too inexperienced with a little bit too much aggression in his game to take this head-to-head.

Arbeloa has only played one cup game so far for West Ham, so it’s hard to include him in this. If he starts playing to the best of his ability he could prove to be a great signing, and come the reverse fixture this could be his spot.

3 Positions Down. All Saints.