Football News: Premier League Preview Friday 20th October 2017
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Friday 20th October 2017
West Ham United v Brighton & Hove Albion 8pm kick off
Hernandez (knock) late fitness test
Collins (ankle injury) slight doubt
Fernandes (fitness) slight doubt
Carroll (suspended) out
The Hammers are beginning to get the look of a team that have turned the corner, though Andy Carroll's sending off against Burnley did not help matters. Having said that, having Carroll on the pitch has not exactly been helping matters either, as his presence has meant the best goalscorer, Chicharito, has been shunted out wide to make room for the big Geordie. The big issue is that Chicharito has picked up a knock and may not be fit for the one game he was certain to start up front. You have to wonder if Slaven Bilic has run over a black cat to have such bad luck.
b>Most important player: Manuel Lanzini. Oh how they have missed him, his return to fitness is a massive plus for West Ham. His quality on the ball is a long way above the rest of the team and he is the creative heart of the side.
Duffy (groin strain) late fitness test
Sidwell (back injury expected return 20th November) out
Baldock (calf injury expected return 29th October) out
Kayal (leg injury expected return 4th November) out
Hemed (suspended) out
Brighton are holding their own so far this season, even being unlucky not to be a bit further up the table, having missed out on all 3 points last weekend after Bruno's moment of madness. However their away form has been poor, they have picked up just one point and scored one goal on their travels so far. That needs to improve quickly or they will find themselves slipping down the table and in danger of a quick return to the Championship.
Most important player: Anthony Knockaert. The French winger has struggled so far this season, seemingly because he is trying too hard to make things happen. On his day he has the quality to make the difference, Hughton will be hoping this is his day!
Defining Battle: the key battle will be between Knockaert and the Hammers left back, presumably Cresswell. If Knockaert is given time and space he can win a game, he has the quality to do so. Cresswell has to be careful not to get too tight, as he lacks the pace to get back if Knockaert gets in behind him.
Editors' Predictions:
Ed002 - 3-1
Ed003 - 1-0
Ed004 - 2-1
Ed007 - 3-1
Ed018 - 2-1
Ed025 - 1-1
Ed033 - 1-0
Editor's Predictions Table
1. Ed018 - 48 points
2. Ed025 - 43 points
3= Ed003 - 40 points
3= Ed007 - 40 points
5. Ed002 - 37 points
6= Ed004 - 35 points
6= Ed033 - 35 points
*1 point is awarded for the correct result, 3 points for the correct score.
**updated 19th October 2017
Written by Tris Burke October 20 2017 04:29:59
