Prediction: West Ham vs Burnley

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 13/5

Bookmaker: bet365

While you could argue that there are some bigger games around the Premier League this weekend than West Ham United vs Burnley, we’re equally as intrigued by it for a multitude of reasons. Both clubs have had their ups and downs this season and that kind of inconsistency almost always leads to an entertaining game, especially given the attacking quality both teams possess. So while you may be focused on Liverpool vs Arsenal or Tottenham vs Wolves, take a minute to sit back and consider what these two clubs will be bringing to the table.

West Ham

The Hammers have been very hot and cold throughout the first 10 games of the Premier League season, and many felt as if it’d be that way with Pellegrini finding his feet in his new position. The thing with the West Ham ‘project’ of sorts is that it’s going to take a few years before it really starts to pay off, and the fans need to recognise that. They shouldn’t be in any immediate danger regarding the bottom three, and in fact, we think that a challenge for the top half isn’t entirely outside the realms of possibility.

Team News

Mark Noble is suspended with Andy Carroll and Jack Wilshere both being expected to miss out.

Burnley

Following their disappointing tenure in the Europa League, it appears as if Burnley have settled into the role of being another side battling against the drop. While that’s what many fans were expecting of this season it doesn’t make it any easier, especially given that they possess the quality to be doing so much more. Sean Dyche needs to find the right starting XI that is going to fit his style of play, and if he can do that, then perhaps they can start to slowly but surely begin their climb back up the table.

Team News

Jack Cork and Aaron Lennon face late fitness tests in what could be a slightly different looking Burnley side.

Factors to Consider

• The game will be played at West Ham’s London Stadium.
• West Ham lead the overall head to head standings 36-32 with 18 draws.
• In their last meeting back in March, Burnley beat West Ham 3-0.
• West Ham have won two, drawn one and lost three of their last six games.
• Burnley have won two, drawn one and lost three of their last six games.

Conclusion

These two clubs continue to mirror one another both in recent form and the season as a whole, and we think that theme is going to transition over into this game. We can see West Ham scoring twice early on in the first half, making it seem as if they’re going to ease towards a big victory. Then, in the second 45 minutes, Burnley will start to push back and have equal amounts of success in front of goal – leading to a final scoreline of 2-2. They say football is a game of two halves, and we think that’ll be proven once again here.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 13/5

Bookmaker: bet365