West Ham United had a fantastic 2020/21 season, and they will certainly be looking to build on their successful term with another strong showing this time around.
The Hammers have an incredibly talented squad, and you feel that they’re only one or two additions away from being top-four contenders once again, and if reports are to be believed, they’re already eyeing up a few exciting purchases.
David Moyes’ side could be contenders again this season with the right signings, and with that in mind, we’re having a go at predicting their starting XI for the opening weekend clash with Newcastle United.
We don’t think that David Moyes will change too much from the side that was so successful last season for this Newcastle game.
There is one big change of note, and that’s in goal as Sam Johnstone starts between the sticks after he was strongly linked with a move to the club.
The back four is about what you’d expect it to be with Vladimir Coufal, Angelo Ogbonna, Craig Dawson and Aaron Cresswell starting at the back.
Meanwhile, the formidable midfield duo of Tomas Soucek and Declan Rice is retained as we think Rice will stay at the London Stadium, despite interest from other clubs.
One player we think will start the opener is Jesse Lingard.
Lingard had a fantastic loan spell with West Ham last term, and we imagine that he’ll be returning to the club on a permanent basis.
Jarrod Bowen and Said Benrahma start on the wings, while Michail Antonio retains his spot up front for this one, but don’t be surprised if there’s a shiny new striker on the bench for this clash.
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