When asked if he believes that his side is truly in a real relegation battle, West Ham United manager David Moyes responded: “I’m hoping it’s not the case, but we’ve lost a few at home recently so we have to be aware that we have to pick up points.”
The Hammers currently sit in the final safety position, at 17th, but they are level on points (14) with Nottingham Forest, who are actually in the drop zone. So, yes, the Irons are in a relegation scrap.
West Ham United at Leeds United FYIs
Kickoff: Wed Jan 4, 7:45pm GMT, Elland Road, Leeds, UK
West Ham Team News: go here
Transatlantic Passage: How the Premier League Redefined Soccer in America: LINK
Google Result Probability: West Ham 35% Draw 28% Leeds 37
PL Form: West Ham LLLLL Leeds DLLWW
PL Standing: West Ham 17th, 14pts Leeds 14th, 16pts
That’s really a bummer for them, as they contended for top four, down to the end, for the last two seasons. Up next is a visit to Leeds United, and here is the lineup that we believe Moyes will go with as he looks to ascend higher up the table.
West Ham United Starting XI Prediction at Leeds United
Fabianski; Kehrer, Dawson, Aguerd, Emerson; Rice, Soucek; Bowen, Paqueta, Benrahma; Antonio
Prediction: Leeds United 1, West Ham 0
Sorry, Moyes moves one step closer to the sack.
Paul M. Banks is the owner/manager of The Sports Bank. He’s also the author of “Transatlantic Passage: How the English Premier League Redefined Soccer in America,” and “No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in the Sports Media Industry.”
He’s written for numerous publications, including the New York Daily News, Sports Illustrated and the Chicago Tribune. He regularly appears on NTD News and WGN News Now. Follow the website on Twitter and Instagram.