Brentford and West Ham United will kick off Sunday’s Premier League action in what promises to be a thrilling London derby at the Gtech Community Stadium. Brentford have been struggling in recent weeks, recording only three wins out of their last 11 games, which has effectively ended their aspirations of European qualification, leaving them in tenth place, behind seventh-placed Aston Villa.
West Ham, on the other hand, have managed to turn their fortunes around and avoid relegation. They spent several weeks in the drop zone and Moyes’s job came under threat. However, with an improved form, they have a chance of qualifying for a European competition.
The Bees had earlier beaten the Hammers 2-0 in the reverse fixture, but the Hammers exacted their revenge when they met in the FA Cup third round. As they prepare for their meeting today, both teams will be seeking to win in the hopes of improving their standings.
Brentford will miss the services of four first-team players due to injury, including Thomas Strakosha, Pontus Jansson, Keane Lewis-Potter, and Christian Norgaard. Brentford is expected to field a 4-3-3 formation in front of goalkeeper David Raya, with the backline featuring Aaron Hickey, Ethan Pinnock, Ben Mee, and Rico Henry. Mathias Jensen, Joshua Dasilva, and Vitaly Janelt are expected to take up positions in midfield, while Bryan Mbeumo and Ivan Toney are expected to lead the attack alongside Kevin Schade.
West Ham’s manager, David Moyes, is expected to rest Michail Antonio and Vladimir Coufal for the game against Brentford. Danny Ings is expected to lead the Hammer’s attack, while Lanzini and Fornals will complete the offensive unit. The midfield unit for West Ham is expected to comprise Tomas Soucek and Declan Rice.
Brentford has a strong home record with 31 points in 17 home games, but their recent form is a cause for concern. Meanwhile, West Ham has only managed to record three away wins this season, giving the hosts an advantage in this fixture. Despite the Hammers’ struggles on the road, they will present a significant challenge for Brentford, who will likely edge the game with a 2-1 win.
Ivan Toney will be the player to watch on Sunday as the Englishman has been in prolific form for Brentford this season. His record against West Ham United is impressive, having been involved in Brentford’s last four Premier League goals against them, scoring two and assisting two. Toney’s output will be vital if Brentford is to end their season on a high note.
