Aston Villa and West Ham Out to Avoid European Hangover – Preview
Following big wins in Europe, West Ham take on Aston Villa at the London Stadium on Sunday. West Ham are on the back of a resounding 5-0 win against Freiburg to send themselves through to the quarter-final of the Europa League, while Villa overcame Ajax by four goals on Thursday night in the Conference League.
Moyes praises Kudus show
Moyes’ side have only won three games since the turn of the year, beating Everton, Brentford and Freiburg. The latest coming against the German side, which will be a great platform to build some form again.
They will be without Maxwel Cornet for the game, with Emerson Palmieri a “late call” to potentially play on Sunday.
West Ham fans will be hoping Mohammed Kudus can repeat his magnificent solo goal, with Jarrod Bowen describing him as “a special player” after the match.
In the build up for this game, Moyes was full of praise for the Ghanaian international, “it was a brilliant goal and with a lot of great performances from Mo it’s been coming.
“He’s just beginning to find his form after the African Cup of Nations.
“It was a little bit of an old fashioned wingers run, snaky hips and trying to beat people as they come up to you. It was a brilliant run and a brilliant goal.”
With some sides side-tracked by The Fa Cup, a win for West Ham will leave them one point behind Manchester United in sixth. Having spent three consecutive seasons in Europe, Moyes will be desperate to maintain their European status for next season.
Villains to continue impressive away form?
Similarly, Aston Villa visit The London Stadium on the back of a resounding win midweek.
The success of all English clubs in European competitions has improved the chances of fifth place allocating a Champions League spot next season, thanks to the new Champions League format. Therefore, a win here is vital in hope of qualifying for the competition for the first time since 1982/83.
Emery will be craving a response to last weeks humbling against Tottenham, with their away form suggesting they are capable. His side haven’t lost away from Villa Park since Boxing Day.
After hobbling off against Ajax, Ollie Watkins could be available for selection, Emery confirmed after the match, “He could be available for Sunday, but it is only a cut. We will wait and see tomorrow and Saturday.
“We are speaking before each match about how important Ollie Watkins is.”
Having 26 goals and assists this season, Watkins will be dearly missed if unavailable. They will be hoping Jhon Duran can fill some pretty large boots. Emery spoke about how happy he is with his progress, “Jhon Duran is always the same way we have with him is trying to support him and practice with him in the training session.
“He was injured for two months and it’s really good for him to play.”
Centre-back Diego Carlos has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Head-to-head
All time:
West Ham wins: 45
Draws: 35
Aston Villa wins: 39
Last 5:
Premier League, 22nd Oct 2023 – Aston Villa 4 – 1 West Ham
Premier League, 12th Mar 2023 – West Ham 1 – 1 Aston Villa
Premier League, 28th Aug 2022 – Aston Villa 0 – 1 West Ham
Premier League, 13th Mar 2022 – West Ham 2 – 1 Aston Villa
Premier League, 31st Oct 2021 – Aston Villa 1 – 4 West Ham
