Arsenal travel to London Stadium to take on West Ham in another London Derby as they eye to catch cup fourth placed Chelsea.
West Ham toiled hard for their 2-0 victory against Birmingham in 3rd round of FA Cup. The Hammers have concerns of their own as their star player asks for a transfer to China. Pellegrini’s repertoire of working well with lower teams is yet to be proved at West Ham.
Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Blackpool shows difference of class between two teams despite of six changes in Arsenal team. Arsenal have failed to keep a single clean sheet on the road in the league this season and they will look to improve this record as their six players return to first team after injury concerns.
Probable Lineup:
West Ham:
Fabianski (GK); Zabaleta, Diop, Ogbonna, Cresswell; Snodgrass, Noble, Rice, Anderson; Carroll, Arnautovic.
Arsenal:
Leno (GK); Bellerin, Koscielny, Sokratis, Monreal; Torreira, Xhaka; Guendouzi, Ozil, Aubameyang; Lacazette.
My Prediction XI:
Leno (GK); Zabaleta, Ogbonna, Sokratis, Bellerin; Snodgrass, Rice, Xhaka, Guendouzi; Aubameyang(C), Lacazette(Vc).
My Prediction:
The reinforcement at the back solves the backline problem for Arsenal and look dangerous in front of the goal.
Pellegrini’s tactical prowess is required if West Ham wish for a surprise result.
