West
Ham know their chances of securing a top-four finish could depend massively on
how they fare against Chelsea this weekend.
The Blues’ draw versus Brighton midweek means the Hammers are
still very much in the fight, despite their disappointing loss to Newcastle
last week.
In terms of team news, manager David Moyes is expected to have
Jesse Lingard available for the game. The 28-year-old had to be taken off at St
James’ Park last Saturday due to cramp and it is not believed to be anything
more serious.
However, Aaron Cresswell (thigh) and Arthur Masuaku (knee)
are major doubts, with Michail Antonio (hamstring) Declan Rice (knee) having
already been ruled out. Craig Dawson is suspended after his sending off against
the Magpies.
West Ham’s Predicted XI To Play Chelsea:
Fabianski, Coufal, Diop, Balbuena, Ogbonna, Johnson, Soucek,
Fornals, Noble, Bowen, Lingard
Blues boss Thomas Tuchel has two injury concerns with Thiago Silva
(match fitness) a doubt, while Mateo Kovacic is unlikely to feature due to a
hamstring problem.
Chelsea’s Predicted XI:
Mendy, James, Azpilicueta, Christensen, Rudiger, Chilwell,
Jorginho, Kante, Ziyech, Werner, Mount
The bookmakers have made Chelsea the favourites with Bet365
pricing them at 17/20 odds-on to win. A draw is 14/5 with Unibet while a
victory for West Ham is 18/5 at BetVictor.
Predicted Score – 1-1
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