Chris Sutton predicts Tottenham vs. West Ham score that will finally have the fans relieved

Their next challenge comes against fellow strugglers West Ham United. The Hammers are enduring a similarly difficult campaign and are facing the threat of relegation under Nuno Espirito Santo. They are now winless in their last ten league matches, with their most recent victory coming against Burnley in November. As a result, the clash promises to be an intriguing encounter between two sides desperate for all three points.

Tottenham face a tricky test against West Ham in the Premier League

Tottenham must rediscover their form at home in the Premier League and start delivering positive results. They have a prime opportunity to do so against West Ham, who have won just two of their ten away league fixtures this season. Spurs also recorded a convincing 3-0 victory when the sides met earlier in the campaign, and a similar outcome will be required if they are to keep their hopes of European qualification alive.

Chris Sutton has backed Spurs to edge out West Ham, that will have their fans relieved, predicting a narrow victory in what he expects to be a closely contested encounter between two struggling teams. Writing his prediction for the BBC, Sutton said:

“This is one of those games where I like to wheel out one of my favourite sayings in football – these two teams have been so bad recently that they both could lose. It’s certainly hard to make a case for either of them to win it. I am going to go with Spurs, because new signing Conor Gallagher has plenty of energy and will add some thrust and drive to their midfield.”

The pundit added:

“But it’s a lot easier to predict that it will be a dismal game, with Tottenham booed off after a bang-average performance that means Thomas Frank is still under pressure despite winning. As for Hammers boss Nuno Espirito Santo, he is just going to be in even greater danger of getting the sack. 1-0 Spurs.”

Sutton admits the fixture is difficult to call due to the inconsistency of both sides. However, he has tipped the Lilywhites to claim all three points, with Conor Gallagher expected to play a decisive role. Sutton also suggested it could be a ‘dismal’ contest, with both managers under intense scrutiny. Despite that, he believes Spurs will do just enough to secure a much-needed victory.

Tottenham have suffered just two defeats in their last 11 home league meetings with West Ham. It has largely been a one-sided rivalry, although the Lilywhites have often been made to work hard for their results. Given Spurs’ poor home form this season, however, it would not be a major surprise if the Hammers dealt a significant blow to Thomas Frank’s European ambitions.

Will Spurs manage to claim all three points in this London derby, or could West Ham spring a surprise that helps them close the gap on 17th place in the table? Only time will tell.