Prediction: West Ham vs Watford

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 5/2

Bookmaker: bet365

The Premier League returns this weekend after some cup action during the week, as we begin the hectic final push towards 2019. There are going to be a series of intriguing games coming your way over the course of the next two weeks or so, and we’re all here for it. One such encounter will take place between West Ham United and Watford, which is actually much more interesting than you may have initially thought. Both teams harbour realistic ambitions of finishing in a Europa League spot, although a loss here could affect those desires quite badly.

West Ham

After a shaky start to life under Pellegrini, things appear to be looking up for the Hammers. They’ve put together a great run for themselves in recent weeks, and it feels like the only way is up for them. There are still obstacles standing between them and a top half finish but there’s no reason to believe they can’t keep this momentum going, especially if they strengthen in January. They’ve already got a fantastic squad, but just think about how much further they could go with their resources.

Team News

Hernandez is expected to start up top with Lucas Perez likely out injured, as the Hammers’ injury problems continue to plague them.

Watford

The always plucky Watford continue to surprise the football world, as they hang around the top half despite having some serious dips in form this season. Their games are always entertaining, as proven by the fact there have been 19 goals in their last six matches. Of course, we all know that consistency has been arguably their biggest issue, and that isn’t going to go away overnight. They need to take a look at what they need in January, because their season may well depend on it.

Team News

Hughes is a doubt with Prodl, Gray and Penaranda all being sidelined, but their proposed starting XI should still be strong enough to give the home side a good game.

Factors to Consider

• The game will be played at West Ham’s London Stadium.
• West Ham have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Watford have won one, drawn two and lost three of their last six games.
• West Ham lead Watford 42-20 in the overall head to head standings, with 13 draws.
• In their last meeting back in February, West Ham won 2-0.

Conclusion

As much as the signs seem to point towards a Hammers win here, we’ve just got a feeling that the Hornets are going to spring one of their trademark shocks. We can see them pushing West Ham back in the early stages, but courtesy of some good fortune, it’ll be the home side who take the lead around the half hour mark. Watford will equalise pretty soon afterwards, though, and the same kind of pattern will follow in the second half which will leave us with an entertaining 2-2 draw to feast our eyes upon.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 5/2

Bookmaker: bet365