Chris Sutton predicts West Ham United v Aston Villa in ‘difficult’ verdict
Chris Sutton has branded the Premier League opening weekend clash between West Ham United and Aston Villa as a “difficult” one to call.
Sutton delivered his first round of predictions this week with BBC Sport [16 August] as top-flight football returns, and a new-look Hammers side take on Champions League Villa at the London Stadium.
The former Villa striker predicted a 1-1 draw between the sides, and acknowledged the high expectations among fans in Julen Lopetegui’s men.
“This is a difficult one to call because there are reasons to back both teams, so I am going to go with a 1-1 draw,” he said.
“I like what West Ham have done in the transfer market this summer and I am really excited about seeing Germany striker Niclas Fullkrug in the Premier League. Fullkrug is an old-fashioned, throwback, type of striker but he can finish.
“Style-wise, the Hammers will be back to the ‘West Ham way’ under new boss Julen Lopetegui, which is what their fans wanted. Expectations are high so let’s see how they get on.”
West Ham United embark on exciting season
There is certainly an air of footballing excitement around East London ahead of the new campaign.
This is majorly down to the aforementioned activity in the transfer window by Tim Steidten and his recruitment staff, as they aim to provide Lopetegui with all the tools for a push to return to Europe.
Of the eight first-team signings made so far, it is expected the majority will be thrown straight into the fold by Lopetegui as he takes charge of his first Premier League game in over a year.
Fullkrug is likely to lead the attack after starring for Germany at Euro 2024, with a new pairing in the centre of defence between Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo – Aaron Wan-Bissaka could slot in to their right.
There could be impacts from the likes of Crysencio Summerville and Guido Rodriguez, with Luis Guilherme expected to make a gradual contribution.
In other West Ham news, Sean Whetstone believes there is a fear the club have overspent this summer.
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