Premier League Countdown: West Ham set for improved campaign
Published:
The new Premier League season is inching ever nearer, so it’s time to start thinking about how the upcoming campaign will shake out.
In the build-up to the new season we’re profiling each of the 20 top-flight clubs, from Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City to Premier League newboys Brighton & Hove Albion.
Our next team in the spotlight is West Ham United…
After the histrionics of last season from the board, the players and not least Dimitri Payet, the Hammers should be looking to get their heads down and kick on this campaign.
The good news is that after a slow start this summer, Slaven Bilic has recruited exceptionally well.
Joe Hart is a significant step up from both Adrian and the departed Darren Randolph, while Javier Hernandez adds a level of cutting edge up front that the East Londoners haven’t had since the arrival of Carlos Tevez in 2006.
The centre-half position remains one of concern however, and with 64 goals shipped last season, the Irons will need to tighten their defence if they’re to have a strong campaign this time around.
Similarly, an improvement on form at the London Stadium will also be crucial for a better campaign.
The East Londoners won only seven of their 19 home games last term and were forced to rely on an away record which yielded 20 points.
If they can sort their home troubles out, and with the issue of goals now solved in E20, things could be about to start looking up for the Hammers faithful.
West Ham United – 2017-18
Key arrivals: Javier Hernandez, Joe Hart
Key departures: None
Man to watch: Manuel Lanzini
Title odds: 500/1
Best bet: West Ham to finish in the top half @ 6/5
We say: The Hammers have recruited well in key positions over the summer and look well placed to improve on last season’s 11th place finish. A three-pronged attack of Javier Hernandez, Marko Arnautovic and Manuel Lanzini should strike fear into the heart of opposition defences, and if the Hammers can get over their London Stadium hoodoo, they could be knocking on the door of the top seven.
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