Boxing Day Travel Challenges
No trains are running, and city traffic is notoriously bad on Boxing Day due to January sales. A bus service is available within the city, so parking in the suburbs and taking a bus might be the best option.
Southampton’s Struggles
It’s already looking grim for Southampton this season. Their record stands at one win, three draws, and 13 losses from 17 games. Recent results include heavy home defeats to Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham, alongside draws at Brighton and Fulham and a narrow loss to Aston Villa.
The Saints were unlucky not to push Liverpool to penalties recently, thanks to yet another questionable refereeing decision favoring the Reds. Southampton sits bottom with just six points, eight away from safety, making survival seem like a distant hope.
Managerial Changes
Following a dismal start, Russell Martin was sacked and replaced by Croatian coach Ivan Juric, whose stint at Roma was underwhelming. His 18-month contract suggests his main task is to rebuild next season in the Championship if survival proves impossible.
Recruitment and Key Players
Southampton signed 27 players over the summer, including Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Adam Lallana, and Flynn Downes. Harwood-Bellis impressed with an England debut, while Downes remains a fan favorite despite limited game time.
Ben Brereton-Diaz and Cameron Archer have contributed to the attack with mixed results. Archer, with five goals across competitions, has been a standout, while Brereton-Diaz continues to struggle for form after a £7m move.
Opposition Outlook
Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk is under scrutiny following a failed drug test, and Everton’s new ownership hopes to steer clear of Juric’s struggles at Roma, as they too sit just four points above the relegation zone.
West Ham Update
A draw against Brighton showed glimpses of promise, although officiating left much to be desired. Micky Antonio remains sidelined, and Dinos Mavropanos faces a fitness test. Paqueta is suspended, but Carlos Soler returns to the squad.
Prediction
Despite a potential new manager bounce for Southampton, West Ham is expected to capitalize on early momentum. An early goal could deflate the home side, leading to a comfortable 3-1 win for the Hammers.
Enjoy the game!
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