Before today’s game I spoke to Michael Oliver of @TheIronsCircle, who you can follow at- @themikeoliver_. We discussed the transfer window, and the possible return of a certain Daniel Sturridge.
To start off, can you tell us about the main dangers West Ham can pose to Liverpool on Saturday, and who you think the real danger-men for your side are?
Well West Ham will likely line up in their diamond formation, with Andy Carroll and Diafra Sakho leading the line. Liverpool’s makeshift back-line with the defensive injuries they have will be in for a tough afternoon competing in the air with Carroll. Downing will spearhead the diamond. It’s important from Liverpool’s point of view that their sitting midfielder, whether it’s Lucas or Emre Can will track his runs and not allow him any space. When given time on the ball this season, Downing has proven he can be a threat.
Do you think there will be any West Ham related business in the latter stages of the January transfer window?
Darren Fletcher’s imminent arrival at West Ham will likely be their last piece of business before the window shuts. Finances aren’t in abundance for the club during this window, and unless they can offload a couple of squad players such as Carlton Cole or Matt Jarvis, I doubt they’ll dive into the market for another player. Although, Lassana Diarra is training with the club at the moment, and is a free agent, so that’s one to watch.
What are your thoughts on West Ham’s season so far?
West Ham have well exceeded my expectations this season. I thought all this talk of Allardyce changing his style was just a way of buying more time in the job before inevitably being let go at the end of the season, but he’s committed to it which has impressed me, and his transfer business has confirmed this. We currently sit seventh, if you had offered me that at the start of the season I would’ve bitten your hand off.
After the ease with which West Ham beat Liverpool earlier in the year, how do you see this game differing?
Well all signs point to Liverpool having Daniel Sturridge fit for this game, which is obviously a massive boost for them. West Ham will approach the game the same, tactically speaking. They’ll probably look to sit back for the opening 20-25 minutes, and grow into the game and possible sneak something on the break. In the reverse fixture, Liverpool were caught off-guard by Valencia and Sakho, underestimated their pace and trickery, I don’t think they’ll be as surprised this time around.
When looking at the current Liverpool squad, who do you feel poses your side the most threat on Saturday?
If he’s fit, undoubtedly it’s Daniel Sturridge. West Ham are carrying a number of injuries in defence into this game. James Tomkins, Carl Jenkinson and James Collins will all be assessed pre-game to see if they can make it, but they’re 50/50 calls. It’s likely we’ll be fielding an untested back four combination, which could be exposed.
Finally, can we get a score prediction from you?
I think it’ll be an exciting game. End to end football, chances galore. I think it’ll end in a 2-2 draw, with Carroll or Downing playing a major part in the goals.
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As per a return prediction I made in a Q and A with @TheIronsCircle, I predict a 3-1 Liverpool win, with Daniel Sturridge providing a monumental boost to our squad.
