Managerless Crystal Palace play host to West Ham United this Saturday. As both sides look to make up for their narrow defeats last week at the hands of North London duo, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur respectively. After a late winner from Welshman Aaron Ramsey secured all three points for the Gunners at The Emirates, Palace were left extremely disappointed. After their hard work over the course of 90 minutes, it was all undone after a Jason Puncheon red card in the dying minutes, which led to the eventual winner.
West Ham suffered similar heart break in their opening day defeat at Upton Park. The Irons were given a soft penalty, resulting in Spurs left-back Danny Rose being sent to the stands. Although midfield maestro Mark Noble stepped up, he uncharacteristically sent it wide. West Ham centre back, James Collins, was then sent off for a second bookable offence. In the dying minutes, Spurs defender Eric Dier got a dramatic winner.
Both sides aren’t known for their attacking displays, so expect a dull affair with both sides putting emphasis on getting men behind the ball, and carefully executing quick counter attacks, and posing huge threats from set pieces.
West Ham face major concerns, with the Hammers missing some key players. Collins is suspended after his red card against Tottenham, with Joey O'Brien, James Tomkins and Carl Jenkinson all missing.
Matt Jarvis could be involved following a thigh injury but Ravel Morrison won`t be involved. Andy Carroll is a long-term absentee, with Sam Allardyce hopeful that either Enner Valencia or Diafra Sakho will be fit enough to start in attack.
Palace are also facing a few injury concerns to key players. Scott Dann and Adrian Mariappa could play a part in the game, but will go through late fitness tests. Jonathan Williams and Jerome Thomas are also doubts, with both players carrying knocks.