West Ham v Wolves
Upton Park, Sunday January 10, 1.30pm
Last meeting: Wolves 0-2 West Ham (15-08-09). There were no signs of a crisis for West Ham on the opening day of the season as they brushed aside Mick McCarthy's Wolves with thanks to goals either side of the break from Mark Noble and Matthew Upson.
The opposition: Wolves lie a point above both the relegation zone and the Hammers heading into what is a crucial clash in the Premier League basement. A win for either team will grant them a reprieve from the heat of battle and into the temporary sanctuary of mid-table. Wolves have been swatted aside by the big guns of Manchester United, Man City and Liverpool in recent weeks, but they did see off fellow strugglers Burnley before Christmas.
Danger men: Kevin Doyle has a canny eye for goal up front for Wolves, while Andy Keogh and Michael Kightly’s crossing ability from the wings was the base upson which the team built their promotion push last year.
Did you know? Wolves were once declared 'champions of the world' by the English press after televised victories over the likes of South Africa, Spartak Moscow and Argentinian side Racing under the guidance of legendary club manager Stan Cullis.
Prediction: West Ham 2 Wolves 1.
Betting tip: Would you bet against Alessandro Diamanti adding to his tally of six goals against Wolves on Sunday? Me neither. After his excellent finish in the FA Cup on Sunday, I fancy the Italian forward to score first in a 2-1 win for the Hammers.
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