West Ham v Southampton

Table topping West Ham entertain second placed Southampton in what could be a very physical game with both sides desperate not to lose. West Ham can open a useful lead on the chasing pack with a win where as Southampton can overtake them if they manage a victory.

With so much at stake and with a fervent crowd roaring them on, West Ham are likely to start with a lot of gusto. Southampton looked to be more solid in their last couple of games and will be hoping to maintain a recent improvement of form.

The Hammers will be without Kevin Nolan through suspension and are likely to be without Papa Bouba Diop. This probably won't make much impact on the game as the squad has a host of quality players who can replace them when necessary.

Saints on the other hand are at full strength with the exception of Danny Butterfield and Dan Seaborne who are both out long term. The main problem facing Nigel Adkins will be who to select for the match day squad, and who will then be in the starting eleven.

With Nolan and Diop out it will be interesting to see who gets selected.

Green could be the difference between us scoring and not if he turns in one of his special performances.

Saints only have Butterfield and Seaborne injured so no problems for Nigel apart from who does he select to do the job.

Jos will need to be art his best to help keep our hosts away from our goal.

West Ham have a good record at home to Saints winning 24, drawing 11 and losing just the 9 matches.

The Hammers have won 5 of their last six home games drawing the other. Saints have collected 2 wins,3 draws and 1 loss from the last six.

Mr Lee Probert officiates Stuart Burt and Adam Watts assist Fourth Official Dean Whitestone

Hammers 2 - 2 Saints

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