West Ham look to start 2018 with win against West Brom
West Ham have had a good rest since their boxing day game, and should push to beat West Brom. Their 2018 must be better than 2017.
Over the Christmas/New Year period, momentum and points are equally crucial. Whilst the points are obviously great, nothing helps confidence like wins. West Ham are yet to get a win in this busy period after a disappointing loss to Newcastle and a draw away at Bournemouth which should have been a win if not for some highly questionable refereeing.
But this West Brom game offers a wonderful opportunity. The Hammers are better rested, in better form and have better players than the Baggies. Whilst that doesn’t mean much once the 90 minutes start Moyes should push these advantages. Three points here will be a perfect platform for Spurs away later this week.
More from Green Street Hammers - West Ham
- Brighton vs West Ham predictions: Can James Ward-Prowse help end the curse?
- West Ham and two Premier League rivals made huge transfer stand
- Lucas Paqueta bet allegations discussed in West Ham and Man City transfer talks
- Bournemouth vs West Ham predictions: Premier League opener amid transfer chaos
- West Ham near Denis Zakaria transfer after final James Ward-Prowse bid
Pushing ahead
I doubt you will find many West Ham fans who think 2017 was a good year. Bilic struggled for any momentum past January, faltered in the transfer window and was ultimately replaced by Moyes. Whilst performances on the whole have improved, wins are needed now. The psychological break that is the change of year could be a perfect chance to push on.
Marko Arnautovic is in form and Lanzini, despite the two match ban, is a solid creative force. The defence looks better than any time under Bilic and the midfield, and Chicharito’s role, are really the two big challenges left for Moyes. Here, the Mexican could be a perfect solution for the match.
With West Brom on a 19 match winless run, the key is killing any hope they will look to build. If the Hammers let West Brom get a foothold they will start to think it’s their chance. An early Hammers goal will suddenly make the Baggies feel all the tiredness in the legs, and make them remember they haven’t won in a long while. Chicharito has been unlucky in recent games, but needs time on the pitch to get goals.
Next: Striker Issue Holding Club Back
His style of play is also a big factor for me. With games coming thick and fast, players that don’t run themselves into the ground every match are good to have in the starting XI. Players like Michail Antonio can’t be used too intensely for fear of injury.
Hopefully the board and Moyes have a plan for the midfield, but Noble should be back and I hope Kouyate is rested. He could be one of two Senegalese players leaving the club this January window.