West Ham United have had a mixed start to the 2024-25 campaign so far.
The Hammers lost to Aston Villa in the league opener but went on to claim back-to-back wins over Crystal Palace and Bournemouth, with the latter coming in the EFL Cup.
However, Julen Lopetegui’s side failed to enter the international break on a high as they lost 3-1 to Manchester City at the London Stadium.
West Ham are now set to take on Fulham in an away game in the Premier League on Saturday.
It is expected to be a difficult contest for the Irons who suffered a 5-0 thrashing in this exact fixture last season.
Predicted West Ham XI vs Fulham 
Julen Lopetegui is not likely to make many changes to the starting XI this weekend despite the 3-1 loss to City.
Alphonse Areola was replaced at half-time against the Citizens due to injury last time out, raising concerns about his availability. However, Lopetegui has confirmed the goalkeeper is fit to face Fulham on Saturday.
In front of the Frenchman, both Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Emerson have been impressive and so the duo are expected to keep their starting berths. The same cannot be said about Konstantinos Mavropanos despite solid outings in all three top-flight matches so far.
Jean-Clair Todibo has made two substitute appearances in the Premier League after arriving from Nice, and the Hammers may pair the top centre-back with Max Kilman against Fulham.
In midfield, we are not expecting any changes as Edson Álvarez and Guido Rodríguez should continue.
Further forward, the excellent trio of Mohammed Kudus, Lucas Paqueta and Jarrod Bowen are almost guaranteed to start. But a surprise start for Danny Ings is likely despite the 32-year-old being the club’s third-choice striker.
Niclas Fullkrug’s availability is doubtful for Saturday’s away clash as the summer arrival is struggling with an Achilles injury sustained on international duty. Michail Antonio is also an option but the experienced forward is likely tired from his international exploits.
Predicted XI: Areola; Wan Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Emerson; Rodriguez, Alvarez; Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus, Ings
