Paul Merson predicts West Ham United v Brentford in Premier League
West Ham have had a tough ride so far this season and under Julen Lopetegui, the threat of relegation seemed very real.
However, since the arrival of Graham Potter, there is a feeling of optimism at the London Stadium looking forward to a new era.
Results under the new boss have varied but the Hammers now sit 10 points above the Premier League relegation zone suggesting they will be fine for now.
With Brentford next up at the London Stadium, Potter will want to return to winning ways.
Paul Merson sends new West Ham message
After losing 2-1 against Chelsea last time out, the Hammers will be hoping to get three points under their belt as they prepare to face Brentford on Saturday (15 February).
The Bees have been in strong form at home this term but away from home they have struggled to replicate these high standards meaning the Hammers will be pleased that they are the hosts for this clash.
Writing for Sportskeeda, Paul Merson believes there is only one outcome, saying: “Brentford are experiencing a bit of a lull now.
“They had that run where they were dominating everyone on home turf and now the results have dried up a bit. Considering how Tottenham have been all season, they would have been gutted to have lost to Spurs at home in their last game.
“Even though they need to start winning games away from home, I don’t expect Brentford to do that this weekend at the London Stadium.
“I was impressed by West Ham against Chelsea and I thought they were unlucky to lose that game. The Hammers are under no threat when it comes to the relegation battle either. I expect two teams out of Wolves, Leicester and Ipswich to join Southampton this term.
“Everything points to a win for West Ham here. I see no other outcome. Prediction: West Ham 2-1 Brentford.”
Graham Potter needs West Ham win
Although things are looking up in east London under the management of Potter, the boss will be keen to get another win under his belt to ease some of the pressure and show signs of starting to turn a corner.
Brentford seem to have been a different side away from home this term which could certainly work in the Irons’ favour as they welcome the Bees to The London Stadium.
As Merson says, the Hammers should definitely have done enough to free themselves from any threat of a relegation battle given the struggles that are being faced below them.
However, there is plenty of football to be played and Potter will be keen to see results looking up to solidify why the West Ham hierarchy were right to make the change and bring him in.
With Jarrod Bowen now available again and the possibility of Evan Ferguson making his debut against Brentford following his loan signing, the Irons need to finally make a statement with a big win and performance in front of their home crowd.