On Sky
It`s a trip to Norfolk this Saturday to take on Norwich City in a clash that is already being deemed a six-pointer. Can West Ham get back to winning ways at Carrow Road or are we set for more disappointment, I`m going forth former!
Vital Quotes:
As we prepare to take on Norwich City, Sam Allardyce has already quantified the importance of the fixture, commenting at his pre-match press conference,
‘Norwich is a six pointer already. They played well in their last home game against Cardiff and we have to make sure we frustrate them in that area and be clinical when we get our chances.”
And as for the perennial, but haunting, problem of injuries, Sam added,
‘It’s not very good injury wise at the moment other than we’ve got James Collins back in training. Winston Reid picked up an unfortunate one this week which adds to the list.’
Norwich City Team News:
Chris Hughton, under pressure after two bad defeats up in Manchester, will take his squad into this fixture with his summer signing, the striker, Ricky van Wolfswinkel, still missing with a toe injury.
Another of his summer signings, Nathan Redmond, is also a doubt with a hip injury, however he is able to recall Robert Snodgrass after the Scottish international has recovered from concussion.
Player to watch: Robert Snodgrass
Has the ability to influence the outcome of a match with his energy and skill.
West Ham United Team News:
Sam Allardyce has seen his squad hit by more injury news ahead of this fixture with Winston Reid being ruled out with an ankle injury.
Amongst the others on the injured list are Andy Carroll, Ricardo Vaz Te and Mladen Ptric with foot, shoulder and calf problems respectively.
However, there is some good news with it being inferred that James Collins will be available again.
Player to watch: Mark Noble
Championed as a possible England international, Carrow Road could be the perfect showcase for our ball winning midfielder.
Match Facts & Stats
Our record at Carrow Road is enough to make you wince. In 15 games there we`ve lost 8 and drawn 7. The last time West Ham registered a win there was in the FA Cup in January 2006.
Last season the fixture ended 0-0!
Ref Watch:
The appointed officials are – Jon Moss (referee), M. Mullarky (assistant), D. Eaton (assistant) and A. Haines (fourth official)
Match Prediction:
Goals have been the problem lately for West Ham and without goals the points accumulation has slowed down. Carrow Road is always a hard place to go and Norwich will be keen to turn around their recent downturn in fortune. Can West Ha get a result, let`s hope we can. 2-1 to West Ham is my prediction.
Next Fixtures:
After the forthcoming international break, West Ham United will entertain Chelsea, at Upton Park on Saturday November 24th.
