Exclusive: McAvennie backs Antonio to give Liverpool ‘hard time’ in West Ham clash
We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…
Frank McAvennie has backed West Ham United forward Michail Antonio to give the Liverpool defence a “hard time.”
The Irons welcome the Premier League champions to the London Stadium on Sunday afternoon, looking to continue their great run of form.
McAvennie believes that Antonio could be key to taking advantage of the makeshift defence put together by Jurgen Klopp.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said, “That’s for sure – he’ll give them a hard time.
“Liverpool, they’ve not been firing on all cylinders but they’re going to be a handful. They can’t afford to drop too many points, so they’re going to be up for it.
“West Ham have got the momentum at the moment.”
Antonio will be raring to get stuck into Liverpool after having a night to forget in the 3-2 victory against Crystal Palace.
The 30-year-old may have claimed an assist for the first goal, but he hit the woodwork twice and missed an open goal as he could have easily have left with the match ball.
Klopp will be wary of the threat posed.
The German will be without Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, with all three still being ruled out through injuries.
Liverpool were forced to play with Jordan Henderson and Nat Phillips in the second half at Spurs, but Harry Kane’s injury certainly helped them not concede.
Antonio will be ready to be unleashed at the Reds’ defence.
In other West Ham United news, Owen & Lawrenson predicts Hammers clash with Reds