Mark Lawrenson backed Chelsea to beat West Ham 2-0 tomorrow, when writing his regular prediction column for BBC Sport.
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That will come as no surprise to the Hammers fans. Lawro has us down in 12th position in his prediction table on just 36 points!
Tomorrow’s clash with Chelsea is a hugely important one for both sides.
The Blues currently hold a slight advantage in the race for the Champions League places.
Thomas Tuchel’s side are sitting in fourth spot in the Premier League table, ahead of David Moyes’s men purely because of a superior goal difference.
The outcome of the clash at the London Stadium will go a long way to deciding whether West Ham or Chelsea finish in side the top four this season.
Mark Lawrenson makes West Ham vs Chelsea prediction
If we manage to beat the Blues, the the top four will really be on. Champions League football will be within touching distance with just five games remaining.
Lawrenson thinks the Hammers could be in for a tough afternoon against Chelsea, however:
“This is a big game in terms of the top four and I just wonder if West Ham might be in a bit of a trough at the moment after their defeat by Newcastle last time out. Midfielder Declan Rice and striker Michail Antonio are injured and defender Craig Dawson is suspended after his red card against the Magpies. Chelsea did not do a lot in their draw against Brighton on Tuesday. The Blues have got their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid on Tuesday so boss Thomas Tuchel might rest players, although it is difficult to know what his priority will be. Chelsea need to be in the Champions League next season. So, I would be very surprised if Tuchel seriously messes with his team on Saturday.”
Lawro’s prediction: 0-2
The West Ham fans can take solace from the fact that Lawrenson has predicted the results of our games incorrectly more often than not this season.
We are missing some massively important players. But that doesn’t mean others can’t step up and be counted.
If we take the game to Chelsea, we have every chance of beating them.
Let’s all stick together and back the boys. COYI X
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