West Ham v Fulham: In-Form Hammers Host Goal-Shy Cottagers

The Premier League’s first fixture this weekend sees a resurgent West Ham host relegation-threatened Fulham in another intriguing London Derby.

Both sides entered the current campaign off the back of huge summer investments and expectations, yet only the Hammers can claim to be satisfied with their actions since. Whilst the Irons sit in the relative comfort of 10th place, Fulham sits in the relegation zone.

Despite the eye-watering sums paid for the likes of Alfie Mawson and Jean-Michael Seri, the Cottagers haven’t received an adequate return from their players. A dreadful run of form sees them lie in 19th, having sacked the previous coach Slavisa Jokanovic and replaced him with former Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri. In what should still be an intriguing match-up, both clubs will go hammer and tongs for the 3 points; West Ham to aid their European push, and Fulham to escape the perils of relegation.

As always, there are many intriguing subplots to keep an eye out for. Watch out for the Hammers’ Ryan Fredericks, who was integral to Fulham’s promotion, as he plays his former club. Even more tantalising is the potential debut of Fulham’s January signing Havard Nordtveit – who spent an unhappy year at the London Stadium 2 seasons ago.

The last meeting between these sides ended in a comfortable 2-0 win for West Ham. Whilst the hosts will be looking to do the double, Fulham will be hoping for any points from a tough London Derby.