Whispers

Moyes preparing aerial assault

Moyes preparing arial assault with Soucek & JWP

Despite spending much of the last two weeks concerned about West Ham’s mini injury crisis, gaffer David Moyes could be about to select the same team that started against Nottingham Forest.

Whilst the team finished the game strongly with a goal from Tomas Soucek, it was a lethargic performance against Steve Cooper’s side. It may be tempting for Moyes to move Lucas Paqueta back to his more favoured position and play Said Benrahma on the left.

Tomas Soucek proved David Moyes' decision right

Moyes preparing arial assault with Tomas Soucek

However, Soucek could prove crucial against Burnley. Having watched Burnley’s loss to Arsenal, it reminded me of how poor their defending was. Some of their decision-making under the high balls was calamitous, and I’d expect David Moyes to have taken note.

With James Ward-Prowse playing at his peak from set-pieces, I’d anticipate an aerial assault from the Hammers. For that reason, I wouldn’t be surprised if Paqueta starts the game on the left, and Soucek is given the license to roam.

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Kris Gonzo (commonly known to the West Ham community as Gonzo) is the co-founder of Hammers Chat (established 2014) and the lead video content creator and columnist for Claret and Hugh.

With over a decade of professional sports media experience, he is a frequent West Ham United analyst and contributor for Sky Sports News, BBC Football Focus, and BBC Radio 5 Live. He previously served as an official video and content creator for West Ham United FC during the club's tenure at Upton Park and featured in the official documentary commemorating the historic final game at the Boleyn Ground.

A lifelong Hammer since the legendary 10-0 victory over Bury, when he isn't providing daily match analysis on the Hammers Chat YouTube Channel or broadcasting on X (@GONZObignose), he can be found walking his dog and restoring classic pinball machines.