West Ham United v Aston Villa score prediction shared by Tony Cottee
Tony Cottee has backed West Ham to pick up the three points against Aston Villa in the Premier League on 17 August.
The Hammers play host to Unai Emery’s side at the London Stadium as they kick-start an era under Julen Lopetegui.
Cottee sees his former side starting the new season on a winning note by sealing a 2-1 victory.
He wrote on X: “I’m looking forward to the new season, my ST is renewed and some good signings made but can we pick the right team and get everyone to gel together? Will be a very interesting game.
2-1 Hammers.”
West Ham must take the game to Aston Villa
Lopetegui, in his tactical approach against Emery’s Villa, will likely prioritise a high-pressing game to disrupt Villa’s build-up play, capitalising on the new signings to strengthen their defensive and midfield transitions.
The Spaniard might opt for a flexible formation, possibly switching between a back three and four based on Villa’s setup, aiming to exploit any indecision in Emery’s tactical choices.
The emphasis will be on controlling the midfield, with players like Lucas Paqueta potentially dictating the tempo, while new signings like Aaron Wan-Bissaka could be crucial in thwarting Villa’s wing play, particularly against Morgan Rogers.
Lopetegui’s strategy might involve quick transitions from defence to attack, using the flanks to stretch Villa’s defence, thereby creating space for Jarrod Bowen, Mohammed Kudus or other forwards to exploit.
This approach not only aims to nullify Villa’s strengths but also to impose West Ham’s game plan, focusing on possession and quick counter-attacks to secure the victory Cottee predicts.
In other West Ham news, a Champions League side are now open to selling their key player with the Hammers eyeing a deadline-busting transfer.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.