Frank McAvennie predicts West Ham v Aston Villa scoreline
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 is surprised by suggestions that Aston Villa boss Dean Smith is under pressure ahead of Sunday’s clash with West Ham.
However, the ex-Irons star, who also had a spell at Villa during his playing days, has backed the Irons to inflict a fourth successive defeat on the home side at Villa Park.
McAvennie told West Ham Zone: “They’re not in the best form at all, are they?
“They’re talking about Dean Smith being the second favourite to get sacked. I can’t believe that.
“I’ll go 2-1 to West Ham.”
Moyes on top
West Ham did the double over Aston Villa last season as David Moyes got the best of his managerial duel with Smith.
The Irons won 2-1 at the London Stadium last November before a trip to Sunday’s destination in February brought about a 3-1 victory.
Heading into this fixture, the sides are in contrasting form.
While Villa have lost their last three games, Moyes’ team are on a high after Wednesday night’s penalty shoot-out success over Manchester City in the League Cup, and their three previous games have seen them rack up three wins, keeping a clean sheet in all.
After Manchester City suffered a shock 2-0 defeat at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday, there’s now a chance to draw level on points with the reigning Premier League champions with a win in Birmingham.
Indeed, the Irons would sit just two points behind second-placed Liverpool if they can pick up all three points today.
It’s a big opportunity, and one they will feel confident of seizing upon.
In other West Ham news, Paul Merson claims the Irons will be sweating ahead of a major meeting in London this weekend.
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