This weekend West Ham United travel to the North East for the second time this season after their 1-0 win over the Newcastle United back on Remembrance Day.
The table looks very different from the end of that game to the tie this weekend. After that game we were 6th in the table having previously drawn at home with Manchester City. Despite that we went on a poor run, with some unfortunate or questionable results. Although I think most West Ham fans would have taken 11th place with 26 points after 20 games.
This weekend will be pivotal match for our season and the season of Sunderland. Sunderland are just 4 points behind us, and a win would bring them right back into the middle of the table after a poor start to the year. An away win for us would take us 7 points clear of the Black Cats and could put us back in the top half of the table.
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After a gut-wrenching draw in the FA Cup with Manchester United on Saturday, many positives can go into the game at the Stadium of Light. The performance of the returning Joe Cole who set up both of James Collins’ headers. The formidable defensive qualities that were on show can hold us in good stead for this weekend. The only silver lining that we can take from the draw was that it was a piece of world-class skill from Robin Van Persie to draw level in the 91st minute.
Sunderland on the other hand, drew away to Bolton Wanderers after coming back from 2-0 behind. Sunderland will be a tough place to go and try and win.
Our last trip there ended in a defeat by a single goal with Jordan Henderson scoring for Sunderland.
Sunderland’s player to look out for is undoubtedly Connor Wickham. Many fans of other clubs will know that he was that big money signing who made little to no impact in his first season at the club. Since the start of December he has been given chances in the team. Many Sunderland fans will be feeling that this bright young English talent could make an impact this weekend. Having scored Sunderland’s opener over Bolton last week and putting in a number of very bright performances around the festive period. He would be a player that we may have to keep a close eye on if he gets his chance on the pitch.
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This weekend should be a good competitive tie between two sides pushing up the table and the 3 points for either side would be an invaluable gain for either side. West Ham United will have every one of their players who featured in the game with Manchester United and the debut of Marouane Chamakh could be on the horizon.
My team for the weekend would be: Jussi, Demel, Collins, Reid, Potts, Nolan, Noble, Collison, Jarvis, J Cole, C Cole.
Though one notable absentee from the usual traveling contingent with West Ham United will be chairman; David Gold who is suffering from pneumonia according to his daughter on twitter. As any West Ham supporter would, we wish David a speedy return.
