Allardyce and his men will be looking to continue their fine form coming into Saturday’s clash with The Saints. On the back of three consecutive wins along with four clean sheets from their last four, it would take a bold man to bet against the Hammers. However, Southampton are unbeaten in six in the league and after their loss in the Capital One Cup last weekend, they will be looking to make amends at The Boleyn Ground.
Throughout all the problems that Big Sam has faced this season, consistency at the back has been present for the main part of the season thus far. After the defensive performance last week in the home victory to Norwich, it is unlikely that the back four will be changed. James Collins, a crucial defender in West Ham’s surge up the table believes that the team is full of confidence and with the passionate support of the fans there is no reason why West Ham can’t make it four wins out of their last four.
An all too familiar problem has reared its head this week, in the form of a lack of forward men for The Hammers. With Andy Carroll missing through suspension, it looked like a first start for the hardworking Italian striker Marco Borriello might be on the cards, although due to a hamstring injury picked up in training, he has been sidelined for a couple of weeks. This leaves Carlton Cole to lead the line up top; however he faces a late fitness test tomorrow morning after suffering a West Ham must ensure that they do not come into the tie with any hint of complacency, as they will be punished by the South Coast team. The likes of Morgan Schneiderlin, Adam Lallana, Jay Rodriguez and West Ham summer transfer target Rickie Lambert are all more than capable of notching a goal or two.