West Ham predicted starting XI for FA Cup clash v Southampton
West Ham prepare for a nice break from Premier League football as they prepare to face Southampton in the FA Cup.
The Hammers travel to St. Mary’s on Wednesday night (March 2) for their fifth-round cup tie.
David Moyes will make several changes from the team that restored his side’s Champions League hopes with a 1-0 win over Wolves last time out.
The Scot isn’t likely to be afforded the same rotation luxury he enjoyed against Kidderminster Harriers but several changes will be made as the 58-year-old looks to rest some players ahead of the weekend’s clash with Liverpool.
Firstly, there is set to be a formation tweak with Michail Antonio set for a much-needed break. Nikola Vlasic will come into partner Jarrod Bowen up top in a 4-2-2-2 system.
Alphonse Areola will restore his status as the Hammers cup keeper. The 29-year-old will come in to replace Polish goalkeeper Lucasz Fabianski.
Hugely impressive performances against Wolves for Manuel Lanzini and Aaron Cresswell means they are backed to go again with their form making them undroppable.
Kurt Zouma will be accompanied by Issa Diop with Craig Dawson set to be dropped to the bench.
Hammers veteran Mark Noble will also come into partner with England international Declan Rice at the base of the midfield.
There is no room in the side for Said Benrahma with Pablo Fornals retaining his place on the left wing.
Ben Johnson also keeps his place in the team after Moyes’ Ryan Fredericks call against Newcastle backfired with the right-back being subbed off at halftime.
Here is how we expect the Irons to line-up…
In other West Ham news, Graeme Souness has called for more goals from Declan Rice.
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