Chris Sutton predicts result of West Ham United Premier League clash v Manchester United
Chris Sutton has predicted the result of West Ham United’s Premier League clash against Manchester United on Sunday evening.
The Hammers head into the game off the back of three straight losses, with Manchester City the latest side to run out victorious against David Moyes’ men.
Sutton doesn’t expect their losing streak to end against Erik ten Hag’s side, with the Red Devils running out 2-1 winners at the London Stadium.
“Things can change but, right now, I think West Ham need a point to stay up. That would put them six points above Everton, and the Hammers have a much better goal difference,” said Sutton (BBC predictions, 4 May).
“They won’t get it here, though. Manchester United’s squad has been stretched by injuries but they still have some real quality, especially on the counter-attack, and they are not going to blow up completely.
“Instead, United are finding a way to win games, which is testament to their manager Erik ten Hag. You would never accuse them of being overly convincing, though, which is why I think this one will be close. 1-2.”
Close for comfort
It’s important to remember that West Ham have played Liverpool and Manchester City in recent weeks. Their other loss was against an in-form Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. It’s been an extremely tough schedule for Moyes’ men and things don’t get any easier with Manchester United set to visit the London Stadium.
West Ham are currently four points above the drop zone. One more win will almost certainly secure their Premier League status. However, if they are sucked closer to 18th place this weekend, the pressure will begin to mount on the players.
A tricky trip to Brentford is on the horizon before a tricky test against Leeds United, who are now under the guidance of serial escape artist and former Hammers boss Sam Allardyce. The Yorkshire side do look doomed, but with the former England manager in the dugout, anything is possible.
West Ham fans will be hoping for their fate to be sealed long before they make the trip to Leicester City on the final day of the season.