LINEUPS

It’s a crucial post holiday test between the Premier League’s two Wests, as West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion square off in their latest relegation-esque fight Tuesday evening at the London Stadium.

David Moyes side enjoyed a rare, major seven day rest during the holiday period, as the Hammers have not played a match since their wild, wild Boxing Day draw at Bournemouth. There will be no excuses for West Ham tonight if they don’t get all three points in a pivotal contest. West Brom just played on Sunday in their exhausting 1-1 draw with Arsenal, making it more imperative that the Hammers get all three points here.

With that said, captain Mark Noble returns to the side after his ailing hamstring kept him out the side. Also returning is Manuel Lanzini, back after his suspension for the dive at Stoke City. And it is a return to the starting lineup for Andy Carroll, as Michail Antonio is unavailable this evening due to his groin injury. Jose Fonte of course remains a long term absence.

Meanwhile for West Brom and new manager Alan Pardew, they will hope for a yeomen’s effort from all of their players after the quick 48 hour turnaround trip down south. Lucky for them, Salomon Rondon has gone from doubt to being in the starting lineup for the Baggies. But Nacer Chadli is out, continuing a frustrating campaign for the Belgian and his club.

It’s 18th vs 19th place, and a major, major pressure match for both sides, but especially the Hammers. At home with a few weeks rest against a West Brom side with only one days rest, they simply have to take all three points here. No other result will be acceptable, especially with West Ham having their two-day quick turnaround with a trip to Wembley to face Tottenham.

We’ll see if they are able to get all three points as they should.