Since two heavy defeats to Manchester United and Arsenal, West Ham United have found a bit of form.
Two back-to-back victories against Burnley and Hull have given them some breathing room in the bottom half of the Premier League table – they are now five points clear of Sunderland and the relegation zone.
The big games keep coming though and victory away to Swansea on Boxing Day would mean three wins in three against potential relegation rivals, proving they are a cut above teams fighting for Premier League survival.
Swansea have lost 11 of their last 16 Premier League matches and badly need an upturn in form or risk being cut adrift at the bottom of the table heading into the New Year. They have, however, won their last two at home and will welcome West Ham with little to fear.
How does Bilic’s side get at the Swans and who are their key men? Here are THREE ways West Ham can guarantee victory.
Exploit Amat and Mawson
Jordi Amat and Alfie Mawson haven’t enjoyed the most successful partnership at Swansea so far. The Swansea defence has conceded three goals in four of their last five games and no team in the entire league has conceded more than the Welsh outfit this season.
It’s been a big step up for Mawson, who signed in the summer, but injury to Federico Fernandez has forced Bob Bradley’s hand in selecting the youngster despite poor form.
Getting at these two is the key to victory for West Ham. If the Irons can get an early goal, there could be yet another defensive collapse.
Unleash Antonio
Up against Swansea left-back Neil Taylor, Michail Antonio has another fantastic opportunity to be a big influence in a West Ham result.
The right wing-back has been a sensation for West Ham this season, scoring seven goals and general being a thorn in the side of teams throughout the campaign.
If West Ham can focus their attacks down the right-hand side, we have no doubt that Antonio will win the one-on-one battle with Neil Taylor and get in behind the Swansea defence.
Feed Andy Carroll
The return of Andy Carroll has been a much welcomed one for Hammers fans. He made an instant impact after his 4 month lay-off, scoring against Arsenal despite suffering a 5-1 defeat.
Since then, he’s been slowly returning to full fitness and his two starts against Burnley and Hull have shown he’s the man to take the Irons forward right now.
Not only do West Ham have to supply the big man with chances, but feeding the ball to him generally will be the key to victory. We know he has strength on the deck and in the air and it’s going to be vital in him to bringing teammates into the game effectively.
If Bilic can get Payet and Antonio running off the big man, then there’s a chance West Ham can find the big win they’ve been looking for.