Let’s hope our character shines through today. I really think the events of the last few days may well have instilled a little bit more “we’ll show ’em” spirit into the team. Carlton Cole, who I assume will replace Andy Carroll, is in very good form and will be keen to cement his place and make Marco Borriello wait for his first start.
Many are saying that is is now clear that Kevin Nolan only plays well when Andy Carroll is in the team. Well, that is as maybe, but I don’t think Allardyce will ever drop his captain. he may well get subbed in a lot of games, but he’ll never be left out. In midfield, the manager has some difficult decisions to make if he continues to play 4-3-3. There will be a lot of very unhappy midfielders if Noble and Nolan are automatic first choices. Assuming two wingers play, then there is only one place for Diame, Collison, Morrison and Nocerino to compete for. I think in some away games he will only play with one winger – probably Downing – and cement the midfield with Diame or Nocerino.
In defence, I imagine Collins and Tomkins will continue with Winston Reid still not totally fit. At left back Pablo Armero will be pushing for a start, although George McCartney will start today I’d have thought.
When you look at the Head to Head stats you’d have to say a draw is the most likely result…
Head to Head *
Head to Head Win : Aston Villa: 35.2; West Ham United: 35.2%
Won: Aston Villa: 38; West Ham United: 38
Drawn: Aston Villa: 32; West Ham United: 32
Lost: Aston Villa: 38; West Ham United: 38
Goals Scored: Aston Villa: 168; West Ham United: 166
Goals Conceded: Aston Villa: 166; West Ham United: 168
We need to get something out of this game. Let’s hope we do.