West Ham Vs. Millwall

West Ham host fierce rivals Millwall in a midweek Carling Cup clash bound to keep the Met police firmly on their toes.

In one of the most heated derbies in British football, West Ham will be looking to take the Carling Cup very seriously to avoid embarrassment. In the same stage of the competition last year, a Hammers reserve side just about scraped through in extra time against Macclesfield.

Hammers Team News:

Herita Ilunga remains sidelined with a jaw injury and Kieron Dyer picked up a knock against Spurs on Sunday so will be rested.

Carlton Cole is the club’s only recognised striker as Luis Jimenez – filling in as a forward – also picked up a minor injury at the weekend. Junior Stanislas is expected to fill in.

Player to watch: Carlton Cole

Will be under the spotlight after scoring a magnificent goal against Tottenham on Sunday – minutes before providing a picture perfect assist for Jermain Defoe. Carries weight on his shoulders as the club’s only fully fledged striker… for now.

Millwall Team News:

Midfielder Nadjim Abdou is out for Millwall due to a hip injury, Steve Morison is also sidelined with hamstring injury.

Player to watch: Neil Harris

In his second spell at The New Den, Harris has already scored a hat-trick in the League Cup in the first round two weeks ago.

Ref Watch:

Paul Taylor.

Match Prediction:

With Zola fielding a strongest side possible, a win should not be a problem for West Ham. Anything less and Millwall may rise to the occasion and provide an upset.