Scouting the Doubles – West Ham

Another gameweek, another set of double fixtures. This time around we’ve just two teams to contemplate with the fantasy riches of Man United, facing the rather more paltry offerings of West Ham. Can we really risk looking beyond the obvious?

Our “Scouting the Doubles” feature has been resurrected to help you out. First up, we start with the unfashionable options and take a East End gander at West Ham, who currently sit just one point above the drop zone…

Opponents

The Hammers first play host to Hull City, a team also on 24 points and looking for an upturn in form. Hull have shown considerable battling qualities by drawing against Chelsea and beating Man City of late, but these results mask the fact that Phil Brown’s men have emerged victorious just once in their last twelve league games. Encouraging for the Hammers will be the fact that Hull have scored just three goals (and picked up three points) in their last nine games on the road.

Unfortunately for Gianfranco Zola, their second game almost negates the fact they have a double, with a trip to Old Trafford to face Man Utd. Fergie’s team have been formidable at home; their last five home league games have seen them score twenty goals and register five clean sheets, as their title bid picks up speed. With Wayne Rooney buoyant, it’s looking ominous for Zola’s team.

Current Form

West Ham come into this DGW on the back of an impressive 2-0 home win over Birmingham City, and with one defeat in their last five games, they’re becoming difficult to beat as the battle for survival begins to heat up. In addition, the Hammers have chalked up three consecutive clean sheets at Upton Park, with James Tomkins looking solid alongside Matthew Upson at the heart of their defence. Upfront, Carlton Cole’s return from injury undoubtedly increases their goal threat.

Rotation Risk

Jack Collison, sometimes mentioned on the FFS boards as a possible acquisition, has played just 61 mins in the Hammers last two games, as his midfield place seems less certain than in previous times this season. With the influx of so many forwards in the January transfer window, it’s difficult to guarantee anyone a starting place up front bar Carlton Cole. Take your pick from Mido, Diamanti, Ilan and Franco, as to who is likely to partner the ex-Chelsea man, with Benni McCarthy likely to be out injured.

Potential Targets

Ok. Usually DGWs are a worthwhile punt, a chance to make some points on an unexpected source and gain ground or pull further ahead of your rivals. But before you begin to consider West Ham players, take a look at the season ticker.

Not only do West Ham miss GW28, they will also miss GW29, if scheduled opponents Bolton win their FA Cup replay with Spurs. Unlikely, perhaps, but it merely adds risk to any transfers in. GW30 is an away trip to Chelsea, and despite the fact the Hammers have a double in GW31, once again, they have the misfortune of one of their fixtures being away to a title-chasing side, as they travel to Arsenal before playing Wolves at home.

However, if you‘re still undeterred, these players may well be worth a gamble on this upcoming DGW:

Robert Green
As the above stats suggest, there’s every chance West Ham will keep a cleanie against Hull but Phil Brown‘s side seem to be relishing the relegation battle. Although the Hammers will probably concede at Old Trafford, Green should earn himself some points for saves alone.
Predicted Return: 10 saves

Scott Parker
The midfielder’s form has been impressive this season, but it’s his penchant for yellow cards that keeps Parker from being a decent long-term acquisition. He has, however, picked up 15 Bonus Points so far this campaign, and has better chance than most of catching the eye of those at FPL Towers, particularly at home to Hull.
Predicted Return: 1 Bonus Point

Carlton Cole
Cole’s return from injury has not only seen him pick up a goal in his last game, he has also picked up 1 Bonus Point from each of his last two starts. Most likely to leave Old Trafford empty-handed, so will be going all-out to find the net at Upton Park this weekend.
Predicted Return:1 Goal.

Alessandro Diamanti
His free kick in the Birmingham win showed the Italian’s capabilities. Undeniably skilful, he is capable of deciding a game in the blink of an eye and with his set-piece abilities, could do just that.
Predicted Return: 1 assist.