The Hammers are going into Saturday’s game at the top of the table for the first time since 2006, following an emphatic start to their Premier League campaign.

David Moyes’ side have netted eight goals in two games, coming from behind against Newcastle United in an opening weekend thriller which finished 4-2. 

On Monday night, the Irons beat 10-man Leicester City 4-1, with Michail Antonio scoring two goals in just four minutes after capitalising on the Foxes defensive woes. 

Unlike their east London counterparts, the Eagles have yet to score a goal this season and currently sit 14th in the table, following a 3-0 defeat against Chelsea and a goalless draw against newly-promoted Brentford.

Despite dominating possession, Patrick Vieira's squad were brutally dumped out of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night after a late goal from Ashley Fletcher broke the deadlock and saw Watford progress into the next round. 

Head to head

The last time both sides faced each other was in January, in front of an empty Selhurst Park. 

An early goal from Wilfried Zaha was overshadowed by a double from Tomas Souček, followed by another goal from Craig Dawson during the second half.

Michy Batshuayi's goal in the 90th minute came too late to spark a comeback for the Eagles, with the Hammers taking the victory as it finished 3-2. 

A month prior, the fixture ended in a 1-1 draw after an eventful night at the London Stadium. 

Sébastien Haller scored a close-range bicycle kick, which equalised  Christian Benteke's first-half header. Following a second yellow card from an aerial challenge, Benteke was sent off in the 70th minute. 

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All-time Premier League stats

Played: 20

West Ham: 8 wins

Crystal Palace: 6 wins 

Drawn: 6 

Ones to watch

West Ham - Saïd Benrahma

The Algerian forward has showcased his potential during the Hammers’ first two games of the season – scoring two and assisting twice.

Alongside Antonio and Souček, the former Brentford player is unrelenting and could prove a challenge for the Eagles to keep under control.

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Crystal Palace - Conor Gallagher

Despite the lack of wins for the Eagles, the Chelsea loanee has made a promising start upon his arrival at Selhurst Park.

The English midfielder created an array of chances against Brentford and Watford. However, no one took advantage of the opportunities he provided.

The 21-year-old has proven that he can be a key attacking outlet in the injury-struck midfield position whilst also stepping back to defend when needed.

Injuries

Hammers' left-back Arthur Masuaku is still improving from an ongoing knee injury and has made appearances for West Ham United U23s as he steps up his recovery. 

West Ham have no other reported injuries in their squad. Meanwhile, Palace have several to contend with, particularly in midfield.

Eagles’ midfielder Eberechi Eze remains injured after rupturing his Achilles whilst training in May. However, reports from The Evening Standard suggest that his recovery is ahead of schedule.

Despite recently returning to training, summer singing Michael Olise is yet to make his debut following a back injury and will miss Saturday’s fixture.

Palace captain Luka Milivojević has been absent this season due to personal reasons, although it is unknown when he will return to the pitch.

Match officials 

Referee: Stuart Attwell.

VAR: Graham Scott.

How to watch

The kick-off is scheduled for 3pm on Saturday, August 28, 2021.

Unfortunately, this fixture will not be televised. However, you can follow all the latest updates here on VAVEL.

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