Joleon Lescott predicts result of West Ham United Premier League clash v Southampton
Joleon Lescott believes West Ham United should do enough to beat Southampton at the London Stadium on Sunday, 2 April, with both teams desperately needing a win.
David Moyes’ men are currently 18th in the Premier League, just one point ahead of the Saints, who sit at the foot of the table.
And Lescott believes a defeat for the Hammers on Sunday could do some “big damage” to the club’s morale heading into the crucial run of games.
The former Manchester City and Everton defender told Livescore [31 March] that he believes that West Ham will find a way to a big three points on Sunday.
He said: “This is a massive game. Given they’re at home, I think coming out on the wrong side of this one could do big damage to West Ham’s morale.
“But I do fancy David Moyes’ men to find a way to a big three points.
“Prediction: West Ham 2-0 Southampton.”
Dogfight
Who will have thought at the start of the campaign that we’d be calling a West Ham v Southampton clash in March a relegation three-pointer? Especially on the Hammers’ part which is incredibly disappointing for the club fans.
After the success of the last two seasons under Moyes, West Ham United have suffered a steep decline in the Premier League, especially after having spent a whopping £165m last summer [The Athletic, 1 September].
And not just any odd £165m, but spending it on players who were expected to significantly enhance the club’s fortunes this season.
There was a raft of excitement when the likes of Gianluca Scamacca and Lucas Paqueta joined last summer, two players in particular who were supposed to breed in a new lofty ambition at the London Stadium but that clearly hasn’t happened, with the former especially struggling to establish himself and already seeking a summer move away.
Some of the blame will have to be placed on Moyes for that matter with his attacking stars underperforming this season, and fans will not be happy with news emerging that the board “desperately” wish for Moyes to remain at the helm beyond this season.
Sunday’s relegation dogfight is indeed a massive one for both clubs.