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Mark Lawrenson predicts result of West Ham United clash vs Brighton
Mark Lawrenson believes West Ham are just ‘a couple more additions’ away from really challenging for Champions League places next season.
The Hammers have secured European football for next season, with results on the final day determining whether that will be in the Europa League or the Europa Conference League.
Ahead of a trip to the AMEX Community Stadium, Lawrenson praised the side for their performances this season and predicted an entertaining draw on the final day with a 1-1 scoreline in his final BBC Sport predictions column.
“Both of these sides have had good seasons, but especially West Ham,” he said. “David Moyes’s side seem to give everyone a good game – with leaders Manchester City another example last weekend.
“As I’ve been saying all season, the Hammers do not have the biggest squad but it looks like they only need a couple more additions in order to challenge properly for the Champions League spots next time.
“Brighton are not quite at that level but they are still trying to beat their best-ever league finish, which was 13th in the top-flight in 1981-82. I think they’ll do it too.”
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Success
However the final game of the season goes, this campaign has been nothing short of a success for anyone associated with West Ham United.
A Europa League semi-final and securing European football for next season exceeded expectations for the club, while they pushed for a Champions League place for much of the season too.
As plans shift to next season, the club know what they must do to close the gap on those above them and many areas of the squad need strengthening.
But with one final game to play, they will look to end the season on a high note but with little to play for Brighton’s added motivation could be the difference in this game.
A 1-1 draw would be a good result for both sides to end positively and enjoy their success for the season together, but hopefully the Hammers can get a win to put a smile on our faces for the summer.
In other West Ham news, Paul Merson tips big money summer move for West Ham ace, predicts result v Brighton
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