Jonty Banks

Wed 26 April 2023 8:10, UK

Mark Lawrenson has predicted that West Ham United will continue their recent Premier League revival and claim a draw against Liverpool on Wednesday (26 April) night.

The Hammers moved six points clear of the Premier League relegation zone with a totally dominant 4-0 win against Bournemouth last weekend (23 April), but face a Liverpool side who will arrive at the London Stadium after scoring nine goals in their last two outings.

Writing in his weekly Paddy Power predictions column, Lawrenson claimed the Reds’ defence was still “all over the place” despite their four-match unbeaten run, and David Moyes’ side would come out of the match with a 1-1 draw.

“Liverpool are still a little bit all over the place defensively, they’re not convincing whatsoever,” he wrote.

“West Ham have gone a bit more direct recently. I’m going to go for a draw here.”

Stern examination awaits

West Ham United will enter this clash against Liverpool full of confidence after a week which seems to have completely altered the direction of their season.

Prior to the 2-2 draw against Arsenal, there was still huge amounts of pressure on Moyes’ shoulders, the club barely remained above the relegation zone, and an upcoming Europa Conference League quarter-final tie awaited.

However, after dispatching both Gent and Bournemouth with real confidence in the last week, the brakes seem to have been taken of the Hammers and they can now have a real crack at Klopp’s side.

Despite this form though, they will face a stern examination from a Liverpool side, who themselves arrive full of confidence.

Diego Jota is scoring goals for fun right now, Mo Salah has cut a rejuvenated figure after some early-season struggles, and Trent Alexander-Arnold looks far happier in his inverted full-back role he has featured in during their last two games.

This match looks too close to call, and Lawrenson could be bang on the money with his 1-1 prediction.