It’s fair to say that West Ham won’t be the favourites against Liverpool on Monday, but we’re holding out hope. We’re not in the best run of form, but on our day we’re as good as anyone – and we think we can give the Premier League leaders some trouble.
Nicholas said: ‘I think West Ham will look at it [this game] and say, ‘we will get in your face and get about you’.
He added: ‘They [West Ham] will be dangerous and a real test for them [Liverpool] and if they play it more like a counterattacking game, it will suit them and Liverpool will be a bit agitated…If I am Pellegrini, then I’m playing this as an away match and let Liverpool have possession’.
Clearly, then, like most, Nicholas is expecting Liverpool to do well, but he’s pointed out a few things that should give us confidence.
Despite our problems with the London Stadium, there’s no denying that it’s an intimidating place to come, and the Reds will recognise that.
With all of our technical ability and pace moving forward, Pellegrini’s men will be able to counterattack effectively, and that’s important. Nobody is expecting us to go out and dominate possession, regardless of the fact that it’s a home fixture. We have to adapt and react to the surroundings, and pushing on and trying to lead the game could be a disastrous tactic.
So, like Nicholas says, maybe just sitting back and looking to make use of our pace and flair could be the difference.
Thoughts?
