free 05.01.2012.

West Ham - Manchester United

Tip: 3+

Odd: 1.70

Bookmaker: Pinnacle
FT : 2:2 WIN!!!

West Ham returned to victories as they won at home against Norwich 2:1 few days ago. It was their first victory after four matches where they didn’t have such a tough schedule, but still remained winless. They came impatient into the game and took the 2:0 lead after only thirty minutes scoring the goal from disputed penalty, while Norwich was better in the second half-time, but only managed to reduce it to final 2:1.

Manager Sam Allardyce was absolutely delighted with the victory after a tough path, especially because the team can now turn to matches with better psychology. It was a major victory for their continuity in the Premiership as the team remained at the middle of the table, improving their number of points in comparison to relegation battle. West Ham signed midfielder Joe Cole on a six months contract, who made a comeback after years, while Arsenal’s striker Chamakh got loaned till the end of the season.

Captain Kevin Nolan and defender James Collins are back into squad after serving suspension. Striker Andy Carroll and midfielder Mohamed Diame are the only absentees for this clash.

Manchester United is entering this game after a 4:0 victory against Wigan earned few days ago away from home. Guests were much better during the most of the game, taking an easy victory thanks to two goals scored in each half as the home side Wigan were unable to follow the pace from the guests.

Just like his colleague from West Ham, Ferguson was also delighted with the last match’s performance, stressing out that the victory was excellent and fairly deserved. Guests are in a very good racing conditions having won previous four matches and being unbeaten in last nine matches with eight victories and only one draw. In the racing lineup, Wayne Rooney is the only absentee, while Ferguson has no other fresh injury/suspension worries, except the long term ones.

Guests are expected to refresh their squad a bit, but are still favorites to win this tie. However, being a one legged cup game, this should be an open game with a few goals, just like their previous encounters were. Hosts have improved their offensive lineup and will surely represent a threat to refreshed Manchester United’s side.