The Hammers have yet to turn the corner under manager David Moyes, who has overseen three losses and a draw since taking over from Slaven Bilic. Performances have improved though and after coming close to taking a point off Man City before losing 2-1, West Ham may well be ready for a big performance against Chelsea, to lift them out of the relegation zone, where they occupy 19th place with 10 points. Adrián could be the difference for West Ham in a mammoth test of their character against Chelsea. The 30-year-old former Real Betis goalkeeper was handed a rare Premier League game, his first of the season against Manchester City last week. And despite the Hammers losing 2-1 to a late goal, Adrián's excellent performance should see him start ahead of Joe Hart again this weekend. Álvaro Morata's nine goals in his 14 games this season makes him a massive threat against a side that has conceded the most goals of any team this season - a whopping 32 in just 14 games. He should be well supplied with chances by the likes of Eden Hazard, Cesc Fabregas and Co.And ahead of this match, Moyes, who has been struggling with a number of injuries, said: "It's looking much better. We've got a whole host of players back training and it's good to get them back. Chicharito (Javier Hernandez) is one of those who is back training." On the game itself, Moyes added: "I'm very confident we have a good squad and group of players, but we have to make sure we win games, though. Ultimately, we need to get results. "I think the players know what's at stake and know we will give them every opportunity, but they have to show when they get the chance, or we will use other people." Antonio Conte's side, meanwhile, are in a healthy third place on the standings, with 32 points, and come into this game unbeaten in their last seven league games (six wins and a draw), most recently beating Newcastle 3-1. They were held to a 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid in the Champions League earlier this week, meaning they had to settle for a second-placed finish in their group. Conte added: "It’s a bit strange to see them in this position. "They have a lot of good players with great talent. Also this is a very physical team. For sure they have the potential to do better. I hope not tomorrow, but after our game. I am surprised they have struggled. "In their last game, I saw Manchester City struggling a lot before they won. It won’t be easy. And it’s a London derby. We must pay great attention." In team news, West Ham welcome Hernandez back to the side after his lay-off with a hamstring injury. Winston Reid, who is also hamstrung, will be assessed ahead of the game. Chelsea will be without Danny Drinkwater (fever), David Luiz (knee) and Cesar Azpilicueta (rested).
0 Comments