West Ham United vs Southampton: Preview & Prediction

This Sunday’s fixture plays host to two teams who are both struggling for consistency in the Premier League.

West Ham United have not adapted well to playing in their new stadium, and the memories of their European place finish seem to be very distant indeed.

Southampton have also found it difficult in the new campaign, however Claude Puel’s team can gather some confidence approaching the game at the London Stadium after their 1-0 win against Swansea City last time out.

The Hammers will be hopeful that star man Dimitri Payet can recapture some of his sparkling form from last season, as he has struggled for fitness since being part of the France squad at the European Championships.

Although, boss Slaven Bilic will be desperate for his defenders to put out a better showing after conceding four goals to West Brom last week, as they continue to suffer with injuries at the back.

Nathan Redmond will be looking to build upon his bright start to the new season with another solid performance this weekend for the Saints, alongside the emerging form of forward Charlie Austin netting four goals in his last three outings in all competitions.

Another key player to watch will be Dusan Tadic, who always has the capability to make the difference in the pocket behind the two centre forwards.

Southampton’s in-form striker, Austin – Photo: Simon Stacpoole / Offside.

Team News:

Andre Ayew, Aaron Cresswell and Andy Carroll still remain long-term absentees for the home side, plus defender Arthur Masuaku has been ruled out after suffering a knee injury in their midweek EFL Cup victory over Accrington Stanley.

Saint’s club-record signing, Sofiane Boufal, is unlikely to feature as he looks to regain full fitness since joining from Lille over the summer.

Defender Florin Gardos and striker Jay Rodriguez are both doubts with knocks.

League Positions: West Ham – 18th (3pts); Southampton – 14th (5pts)
Last Meeting: Southampton 1-0 West Ham (February 6, 2016)
Form: West Ham – LWLLL; Southampton – DLDLW
Key Men: West Ham – Dimitri Payet; Southampton – Charlie Austin
Shoot Says: West Ham 1-1 Southampton