A London derby between two struggling teams is set to unfold as West Ham United prepares to host Brentford at the London Stadium. Both sides are desperate for a turnaround in form and will be aiming to secure crucial points.
West Ham United has endured a dismal start to the year, failing to secure a victory in their six Premier League fixtures thus far in 2024 (D3, L3). This is their worst start to a calendar year since 2007, when they went through eight top-flight games without a win. The Hammers’ recent woes have been magnified by their failure to find the back of the net in their last three matches. In fact, the last time West Ham lost four consecutive Premier League games without scoring was back in October 2006. This alarming statistic could be in jeopardy, considering their previous record against Brentford – losing all five of their previous Premier League encounters.
On the other hand, Brentford has also faced a challenging period, losing four of their last five games (W1). However, it’s worth noting that these defeats came against top-four hopefuls Tottenham, league leaders Liverpool, and title contenders Manchester City. Despite these setbacks, the Bees have seen a decline in their league position, with the gap between them and the relegation zone narrowing to just five points. They will be eager to rebuild their buffer and approach this match with an “all or nothing” mindset. It’s interesting to highlight that only one of their last 17 Premier League away games has ended in a draw (W5, L11).
In recent London derbies, Brentford has struggled, suffering three consecutive losses against fellow London sides. These results further emphasize their ongoing challenges.
In terms of key players to watch, West Ham’s James Ward-Prowse has been instrumental in their recent goalscoring efforts, with his last two goals coming from penalties. Ward-Prowse’s proficiency in dead-ball situations is evident, with ten of his last 16 goals originating from penalties or direct free-kicks. However, his individual contributions may prove futile if Brentford’s defense remains resilient and organized.
Both teams will be determined to reverse their fortunes and secure a much-needed victory. The outcome of this London derby will have significant implications for their respective seasons. As the battle for redemption unfolds, fans can expect an intense and fiercely contested match between these two sides.
In conclusion, the upcoming clash between West Ham United and Brentford presents an opportunity for both teams to regain their form and climb the Premier League table. With West Ham’s struggles and Brentford’s recent setbacks, this match promises to be a crucial turning point for both sides. Football enthusiasts will be eagerly anticipating the outcome of this London derby, as the fight for redemption takes center stage at the London Stadium.