Sunday’s sole English Premier League matchup features a captivating contest between West Ham United and Southampton.
Things have taken a surprising turn for West Ham lately, leaving manager Slaven Bilic scratching his head. The electric momentum from last season seems to have hit a stubborn roadblock. Conceding four goals in back-to-back Premier League matches to sides like Watford and West Brom – generally seen as struggling teams – certainly raises eyebrows.
This situation is quite troubling, especially with several key injuries impacting the squad. Southampton’s Claude Puel will surely notice these vulnerabilities. Fresh off their first vital win of the season against Swansea, Southampton are eager to capitalise on West Ham’s challenges. The Hammers must be longing for the familiar comforts of Upton Park to turn their fortunes around.
Match Details:
West Ham United vs Southampton
Sunday, 25 September
Olympic Stadium, 17:00
To Win (90 mins):
West Ham United 18/10 | Draw 9/4 | Southampton 15/10
West Ham United
West Ham’s attacking edge has dulled due to injuries to key strikers Andre Ayew and Andy Carroll. Simone Zaza appears to be struggling to adapt to the Premier League’s fierce physicality. However, Dimitri Payet continues to mesmerise fans with his brilliance, and Michail Antonio’s impressive streak of scoring in four consecutive games keeps the hope alive.
Antonio’s move forward leaves gaps at full-back, with Arthur Masuaku’s performance against West Brom raising concerns. Defensive frailties at these wide positions have been painfully exposed by opponents like Watford. The return of Aaron Cresswell is urgently awaited. Southampton’s quick and skilful duo, Nathan Redmond and Dušan Tadić, alongside likely introduction of Shane Long, will aim to exploit these weaknesses.
Veteran Mark Noble has been a loyal servant but looks a bit worn in the holding midfielder role when the game opens up. These issues present a few tricky puzzles for Bilic to solve for the Hammers.
Southampton
Claude Puel can breathe easier after securing Southampton’s first win, changing the team’s momentum. The Saints seem to prefer a more defensive setup this season, with Oriol Romeu shielding the defence, supported by Pierre-Emile Højbjerg forming a second protective layer. Steven Davis, usually keen to push forward, appears to be curbing his attacking runs.
Southampton looks set to strike mainly on the counterattack, especially with Charlie Austin lacking support – a gap Shane Long might soon fill.
West Ham’s injury crisis seems to have forced them into a gamble with defence. James Collins, deputising for Winston Reid, seems off the pace, and Masuaku’s recent blunder was notably poor. Southampton will aim to absorb pressure and frustrate their opponents using disciplined defensive walls. Expect them to replicate the challenge they posed to Watford and West Brom.
Verdict: Southampton on the Win/Draw Double Chance (4/10)
Southampton seems perfectly poised to take advantage of West Ham’s current difficulties. But never discount the influence of Dimitri Payet – his talent could rescue the Hammers from disappointment. Expect an entertaining match with goals, but it’s hard to see Southampton losing here.
Written by Damien Kayat @Hollywoodbets
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