Paul Merson predicts Crystal Palace v West Ham United Premier League outcome in ‘baffled’ verdict
Paul Merson has predicted a second straight defeat for West Ham United this weekend as they take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
In his predictions column on Sportskeeda [22 August], the renowned pundit admitted he was “baffled” by Julen Lopetegui’s decision to start just two of their eight senior signings against Aston Villa last Saturday.
The decision came back to bite the Basque in his first competitive game as Villa took home all three points, and Merson sees no recovery for the Hammers in their short journey to South London, tipping the Eagles to run out 1-0 victors.
“Let’s face it – both Crystal Palace and West Ham were disappointing in their first games,” he said.
“The Hammers signed all these attacking players and didn’t use any of them from the start.
“I was baffled by that decision. It doesn’t matter how many talented players you sign unless you actually put them on the pitch from the start.”
West Ham United must get points on the board
Despite every confidence being that West Ham will enjoy a decent season this term, the relief of getting off the mark is a high priority.
Lopetegui will not want to head back to the East End empty-handed for a second week running, otherwise that becomes a blemish on a head coach’s record – particularly with the club’s summer investment.
There are likely to be changes for the Hammers at Selhurst – Michail Antonio was picked to start ahead of Niclas Fullkrug up front against Villa, while Crysencio Summerville and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were also among those benched.
Max Kilman and Guido Rodriguez were the only summer signings in from the beginning in last weekend’s opener, and Lopetegui could well have had an interesting discussion or two with Tim Steidten during the week as to how he plans to integrate his new charges.
A point would not be the end of the world by any stretch – but it’s important for the dressing room that the Irons do not lose.
In other West Ham news, the club are advancing in their bid for a Spanish international.
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