West Ham United face Wolverhampton Wanderers at the London Stadium in a crucial Premier League clash.
Both teams are desperate for points to stay clear of the relegation zone, with recent performances piling pressure on both managers.
Here’s a detailed preview of the match, including recent form, team news, predicted lineups, and betting tips.
West Ham Recent Form
West Ham’s form has been disappointing of late. After a 3-1 defeat to Leicester City, despite dominating the first half, the Hammers are without a win in their last two matches.
Prior to that, they suffered a 5-2 thrashing against Arsenal. Currently sitting 14th in the table, they are uncomfortably close to the relegation zone.
Injury and Team News
West Ham’s squad is dealing with internal tensions and potential injuries. Jean-Clair Todibo missed the last match due to reported disagreements with manager Julen Lopetegui.
Emerson is expected to return to the starting XI, while Lucas Paquetá, who was benched against Leicester, could be recalled.
Players at risk of suspension: Emerson, Tomáš Souček, and Lucas Paquetá are one booking away from a ban.
Last West Ham Lineup
Here is how West Ham lined up in their previous match against Leicester:
Wolves Recent Form
Wolves’ form has also been worrying. They come off the back of a humiliating 4-0 loss to Everton. Prior to that, they suffered another 4-1 defeat to Bournemouth.
Despite showing promise earlier in the season, Wolves are now firmly in the relegation battle.
Injury and Team News
Wolves are facing a shortage of defensive options. Nélson Semedo returns from suspension, while Yerson Mosquera and Bastien Meupiyou remain sidelined with long-term injuries.
Hwang Hee-chan is fit again and could replace Gonçalo Guedes in the starting XI.
Players at risk of suspension: Toti, Rayan Aït-Nouri, and João Gomes.
Last Wolves Lineup
Here is how Wolves lined up against Everton:
West Ham vs Wolves - Who is the Referee and VAR?
Here are the confirmed officials for the game:
Referee: John Brooks.
Assistants: Simon Bennett, Dan Robathan.
Fourth official: Tim Robinson.
VAR: Andy Madley.
Assistant VAR: Steve Meredith.
West Ham Player to Watch
Mohammed Kudus: After returning from suspension, Kudus will look to make an impact. He scored twice the last time Wolves visited the London Stadium, and his creativity could be key.
Wolves Player to Watch
Matheus Cunha: The Brazilian forward has been Wolves’ most reliable goal-scorer in recent away matches. He’ll be crucial if Wolves are to break their poor streak at the London Stadium.
Prediction
West Ham have won their last four home games against Wolves without conceding. Given both teams’ struggles, this is likely to be a tight contest. Home advantage could see the Hammers edge it.
Our Prediction: West Ham United 1-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Betting Tips
Tip 1
West Ham to Win: Given their strong record against Wolves at home, West Ham are slight favourites.
Tip 2
Under 2.5 Goals: Both teams have struggled for goals recently, making a low-scoring affair likely.
Tip 3
Mohammed Kudus Anytime Goalscorer: Kudus has a history of scoring against Wolves and could find the net again.
