In-form West Ham United take on Southampton at the St. Mary’s Stadium on Saturday afternoon as the Premier League action returns. Can West Ham continue their fine form?
The recent transfer window saw a number of prominent players depart from the Saints. The likes of Danny Ings and Jannik Vestergaard formed an important part of their line-up last season, with the former providing 12 goals. Although they have acquired young talent in the name of Livramento, Broja and Armstrong, it remains to be seen just how effectively they utilise that talent. Southampton sit 13th in the league table and are yet to win a match. They lost their opening day fixture against Everton but were able to manage a draw against Manchester United and Newcastle.
The Saints have shown some positive signs in their more recent fixtures. So far, Tino Livramento has been excellent for the Saints, while Adam Armstrong is showing some promise as well. In the previous game, we saw quite a few shots and an overall good movement along different zones.
Southampton’s attacking stats look decent as well, as they are in the top five in attacking actions metric. Their xG of 5.47 is among the top five as well.
The Irons have made a remarkable start to their campaign. They will be looking to stretch their undefeated run, two wins and one draw in three fixtures. The Hammers have also acquired the likes of Kurt Zouma, Nikola Vlasic and Alex Kral. Masuaku is also a possibility for the bench this Saturday as he returns after nursing a knee injury. Michail Antonio and Said Benrahma have been brilliant for West Ham. The former has already scored four goals and assisted a further three this season and looks set to continue his form. He will definitely be the most threatening man in front of the goal for the Hammers this season.
West Ham’s xG of 8.15 is highest in the league, while they sit above Southampton in attacking actions metric at number four.
Michail Antonio’s inspiring form should give visitors a huge advantage. It will be an intriguing battle but the Hammers might edge this one out.
