West Ham United will look to shake off a challenging start to the season as they prepare to host Everton at London Stadium. Manager Julen Lopetegui finds himself under scrutiny, particularly after the Hammers’ recent 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, which added to a string of frustrating results.
Meanwhile, Everton are also aiming to recover from a narrow loss to Southampton, eyeing a spot above West Ham with a potential win.
West Ham Recent Form
West Ham have struggled for consistency, claiming only three wins out of their last ten league matches. Although their recent victory over Manchester United seemed to provide momentum, their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed against Forest.
The pressure on Lopetegui and his squad is mounting as they fight to avoid slipping further down the table.
Injury and Team News
The Hammers will be without Edson Alvarez and Mohammed Kudus due to suspensions following recent red cards, adding to the challenges for Lopetegui’s midfield.
Additionally, Niclas Fullkrug remains sidelined with an Achilles injury, limiting attacking options.
Last West Ham Lineup
Here is how West Ham lined up in their previous match:
Everton Recent Form
Everton’s recent performance has been somewhat mixed, narrowly losing to Southampton last weekend.
Although their record is not particularly strong, they have shown flashes of resilience, and a victory in London would propel them above West Ham, giving them a morale boost going into the next fixtures.
Injury and Team News
With multiple players out due to injury, including Armando Broja, Youssef Chermiti, James Garner, Dele and Timothy Iroegbunam, the Toffees will have to adapt.
However, the potential return of Doucoure may give the Toffees a boost in midfield.
Last Everton Lineup
Here is how Everton lined up in their previous match:
West Ham vs Everton - Who is the Referee and VAR?
Here are the confirmed on-field referees and VAR officials for the game:
Referee: Stuart Attwell.
Assistants: Constantine Hatzidakis, Wade Smith.
Fourth official: Tim Robinson.
VAR: Darren England.
Assistant VAR: James Mainwaring.
West Ham Player to Watch
Jarrod Bowen has continued as a key attacking asset for West Ham again this season, bringing creativity and pace to their frontline.
Everton Player to Watch
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been a reliable presence for Everton in attack, and his ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities will be crucial for the Toffees as they aim to exploit West Ham’s defence.
Prediction
Given the recent form of both teams and West Ham’s missing key players, a closely contested match is expected.
A 1-1 draw seems likely, as both sides seek a steadying result.
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Both Teams to Score
Both teams have defensive vulnerabilities, making it probable that each will find the net.
Tip 2: Draw
With both sides struggling for consistency, a draw provides good value.
Tip 3: Under 2.5 Goals
Both teams may take a cautious approach, likely resulting in a low-scoring game.
