West Ham vs West Brom preview: Hammers hoping for return to form against the Baggies

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at Boleyn Ground

(2015 Getty Images)

It’s a big game for…

James Morrison: The Scotsman caused real issues for Arsenal last weekend, scoring the equalising goal before the Baggies took an unprecedented victory against the Gunners. Has been competing with Stephane Sessegnon for first team appearances this year, but seems to be in favour.

Weird stat…

1913: In the 1912/1913 FA Cup, the teams lined up in the First round of the competition, but couldn’t settle things on two occasions. The original game on January 13 ended 1-1, and the replay, played three days later, was a 2-2 impasse. Nine days on from the original fixture on January 22, West Ham prevailed 3-0. The Irons were eliminated in the next round by eventual winners and claret-and-blue rivals Aston Villa.

Remember when…

Youssouf Mulumbu lost his cool. Back in March 2013, Mulumbu, clearly agitated by Gary O’Neil decided to take matters into his own hands and pick up the ball in open play – while in possession – and hoof the ball at the Hammers midfielder. The referee clearly wasn’t impressed, and the striker was sent for an early bath.

Player to watch…

Manuel Lanzini: The Argentine has scored three in his last five Premier League appearances, including the only goal against Tottenham’s 4-1 victory last week.

Past three-meetings…

West Brom 4 (Brown x2, Morrison, Berahino) – 0 West Ham, FA Cup, February 2015

West Ham (Sakho) 1 – 1 West Brom (Berahino), Premier League, January 2015

West Brom (Dawson) 1 – 2 West Ham (Nolan, Tomkins), Premier League, December 2014

Form guide…

West Ham: DWWLDL

West Brom: LWWLLW

Vital information…

KICK-OFF: 4.05pm

TV: Live on Sky Sports 1, Highlights on Match of the Day 2, BBC1, 10.30pm