2 causes for concern and 2 reasons for optimism as West Ham travel to Watford

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West Ham travel to Vicarage Road on Saturday and will hope to pick up their first win of the season. After a loss and a draw, West Ham will target Watford as the time to climb up the league table.

Here are two reasons why West Ham should be concerned ahead of this clash and two reasons for fans to be optimistic.

Concern: Nemesis

Aside from the last meeting between these two sides, Watford have been a bit of a bogey team for West Ham. In the eight games between the two sides since Watford’s Premier League return, four have been wins for the Hornets.

Watford were the first team to win at The London Stadium and several players have good records against the Hammers. Gerard Deulofeu is a nemesis with two goals in his last two games against West Ham.

Concern: Point to prove

Watford come into this game in terrible form. After losing to Brighton and Everton, Watford will be desperate to bounce back with a much-improved performance against West Ham.

There has been some debate about whether this is the best or worst time to play Watford. The Hammers could inflict three consecutive defeats on Watford but have a habit of being a good team to play if you are out of form.

Optimism: Watford drought

Watford have not scored a goal this season and they have conceded four times already. While they will be desperate for some goals and defensive solidity, West Ham still have an advantage here.

West Ham have conceded six goals in the opening two matches so this could be some much-needed respite. Watford are without talisman Troy Deeney up front, limiting Gracia’s options in attack.

Optimism: Injury situation

West Ham have a full squad now that Mark Noble, Sebastian Haller and Felipe Anderson are back. Manuel Pellegrini has plenty of options; a rare luxury since he has been West Ham manager.

Watford, on the other hand, have a couple of key injuries. Deeney has been ruled out while record-signing Ismaila Sarr is unlikely to feature. West Ham have a fitter squad at this stage.