Ponytail envy to cost the Hammers – Aston Villa vs West Ham

After letting a 0-1 lead slip against the Toffees its back to Fortress *ahem Villa Park for a visit from Big Sam and the Hammers.  West Ham currently lie in 18^th position in the Premier League, they haven’t had the best starts to 2014 but they most recently beat Swansea 2-0.  Their recent good form is being attributed to the return of Andy Carroll although his red card against Swansea for a brutal attack on Chico Flores pony tail (pony tail envy I think) will ensure he is missing (barring some miracle).

West Ham

As mentioned Andy Carroll is missing after losing his appeal against his red card

Aston Villa

Likely line-up:

I’m not very good at second guessing Paul Lambert but I would expect this to be the lineup fitness permiting.

Team News:

Gabby should be back and I fully expect him to take Holts place in the starting line up (leaving Holt to perform his cameo on 65 minutes).  Sadly Vlaar looks to be out AGAIN!!! so we will have Laurel and Hardy at the back – expect goals.  I am hoping we can outscore West Ham because I don’t see us keeping a clean sheet with Clarke and Baker.

I hear that Okore is looking to return in a month or so, and that N’Zogbia may be back in training so hopefully a few more options for the run-in. 

Prediction:

3-1 to the Villa!!

UTV!