Hammers hopes rise with Toon facing injury issues

Haller could be on the bench

The Hammers have to have a very realistic chance of taking something from this afternoon’s game at Newcastle.

So far the Toon  have returned from the break with wins over Sheffield United and Bournemouth, a home draw against Villa and a defeat against Manchester City.

The Hammers meanwhile are likely to have another player back in Seb Haller whom, the grapevine suggests, will see him starting on the bench.

The Geordies, meanwhile, have a build up of injuries with Sean Longstaff, Jamaal Lascelles and Joelinton  all doubtful  while Florian Lejeuene could miss the remainder of the season.

Head coach Steve Bruce says it is “inevitable” he will make changes for his side’s fifth game in the space of 15 days.

With Villa playing at Liverpool today and the results having gone our way among all the other relegation threatened club, this is not a time to slip up and we can probably expect to seen unchanged team turning out for the Irons.

Hugh’s prediction: 1-2