The Daily Star Ireland
West Ham entered this season with ambitions of competing for European qualification spots but have fallen far short of expectations. Currently sitting 14th in the Premier League with 23 points from 20 games, the Hammers have struggled to find consistency despite having a talented squad. Following a four-game unbeaten run that included two wins and two draws, West Ham suffered heavy defeats to Liverpool (0-5) and Manchester City (1-4) in their last two outings. These results led to the dismissal of coach Julen Lopetegui, and the team is now under the guidance of Graham Potter. Last Friday, West Ham faced Aston Villa in the FA Cup.
Fulham, on the other hand, is performing solidly this season and currently occupies 9th place in the Premier League, just four points behind the top six. The Cottagers have proven to be resilient, remaining unbeaten in their last eight league matches with two wins and six draws. However, they have let valuable points slip in recent weeks. After an impressive 2-1 win against Chelsea on Boxing Day, Fulham drew 2-2 at home against both Bournemouth and relegation-threatened Ipswich. Last Thursday, they hosted Watford in the FA Cup round of 32.
West Ham faces several selection challenges for this game. Striker Michail Antonio is unavailable due to recovery from a car accident, while key player Jarrod Bowen (5 goals, 4 assists) remains sidelined with an injury, along with first-choice goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski. Forward Niclas Fullkrug, who has been hampered by injuries earlier in the season, hopes to play a more significant role moving forward and scored in their most recent league match. He is expected to be supported by Lucas Paquetá (3 goals) and Mohammed Kudus (3 goals).
Fulham also has injury concerns. Starting full-back Kenny Tete and substitutes Harrison Reed and Cédric Nelson are out, while influential midfielder Sander Berge is doubtful. Mexican striker Raúl Jiménez, who scored twice against Ipswich and has 8 goals and 2 assists this season, is expected to lead the attack. Supporting him will likely be Alex Iwobi (5 goals, 3 assists), Andreas Pereira (2 goals), Emile Smith Rowe (3 goals, 2 assists), and Bertrand Traoré (1 goal, 3 assists).
Prediction
West Ham has struggled at home, winning only four of their last 18 Premier League matches and enduring several defeats in their previous ten outings. Conversely, Fulham has been strong on the road, securing eight victories in their last 14 away games. Given their contrasting form, Fulham appears to have the edge in this encounter.
Prediction: West Ham 1-2 Fulham
