Mark Lawrenson predicts outcome of West Ham clash v Burnley
Mark Lawrenson has observed that David Moyes picks his strongest West Ham team in European games which could work in favour of Burnley.
The Hammers will face the Clarets on Sunday in the Premier League at the London Stadium, and they will be in full confidence having won 3-0 in the midweek against Lyon.
Lawrenson has predicted a 1-1 draw while speaking to BBC Sport, as he thinks the Hammers are unlikely to lose at home.
“Burnley’s result at Norwich last weekend was as bad as their result over Everton a couple of days before was good,” said Lawrenson.
“I expected the Clarets to kick on after beating the Toffees but to follow up a huge win like that by going to the bottom side and losing is a big set-back. I know Maxwel Cornet missed a big chance to equalise at 1-0, but I thought Norwich were comfortable.
“What might help Sean Dyche’s side here, is that West Ham have a huge Europa League game on Thursday night – they have a small squad and that is the game where David Moyes will pick his strongest team. Even so, I don’t see the Hammers losing this one at home.”
Advantage
Lawrenson, or Lawro, as he is affectionately known, made that prediction based on the situation till Thursday.
In the Premier League, the drama rolls on, and the narrative prior to this fixture has changed completely.
Sean Dyche has been sacked by the Clarets today [Friday], and there will be a different candidate on the dugout in the London Stadium when the two sides meet on Sunday.
Naturally, the advantage shifts towards West Ham, although they can’t take it for granted.
The Hammers are fighting for a position in the top six, whereas Burnley are fighting for survival. Both the clubs have different needs.
Yes, the visitors can pull off a surprise, but the Hammers will be bubbling in confidence after beating Lyon in the midweek.
They just need to keep the focus and ensure they pick up all three points this weekend.
In other West Ham news, this talkSPORT pundit believes West Ham can lift the Europa League trophy.
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