With a 5-3 defeat of newcomers
Burnley last weekend,
West Ham United finally managed to escape the relegation zone. However, with their next matchup against Manchester United, the Hammers may drop from safety yet again. The injury of star striker
Carlton Cole in the match against Burnley was a heavy blow to the London side and
Gianfranco Zola will no doubt be scrambling to replace his best goalscorer. Despite this, West Ham have managed to score 12 goals in their last 5 league matches, but may have trouble repeating this feat without Cole.
Matthew Upson, Boa Morte and Dean Ashton remain sidelined and will give the manager some difficulty in selection. More importantly, the Hammers have conceded an average 2.14 goals while playing at Upton Park.
Sir Alex Ferguson's squad face a tough task of character in which they must continue to bite at the heels of league leaders
Chelsea F.C. While only 5 points behind their London rivals, the Red Devils have shown incredibly determination not only in the Premier League, but the F.A. and Carling Cups as well. A 2-0 victory in the midweek by Manchester's 2nd string showed how much talent Alex Ferguson has at his disposal. Although he is missing key defenders
Rio Ferdinand and Owen Hargreaves, the Scottish manager will have plenty of help with the potential return of
Edwin Van der Sar, Johnny Evans and John O'Shea. Fully rested
Wayne Rooney will be hunting for a goal, so expect the Red Devils to strike early.
Although
West Ham have just escaped the relegation zone, the 3 goals they allowed against Burnley epitomizes the defensive trouble they've had all season.
Manchester United have seemed unstoppable in all competitions, and with a fully rested starting squad should have no problem in beating the Hammers at
Upton Park.
West Ham United vs. Manchester United
Saturday December 5, 2009
Kickoff: 16:00 CET
Tip: Manchester United -1 (Asian Handicap)
Best Odds: 1.73 @ Betsson
