Charlie Nicholas has predicted that West Ham could face a “troubling day” when they play Shrewsbury in the FA Cup.
In his predictions for Sky Sports, the pundit tipped the Hammers to win 2-1 but feared they it could be difficult for David Moyes’ side due to the recent fixture pile-up.
“This is difficult for West Ham because this is the last thing they need after their back-to-back games and the lack of numbers David Moyes is down to,” Nicholas wrote.
“It could be a troubling day for them and you worry whether they’ll able to match their hosts’ energy after tough games on Tuesday and Thursday.”
The Hammers fixture pile-up was caused by their game with Tottenham being move to January 4 due to safety concerns about being played it’s original date of New Year’s Eve.
West Ham’s League One opposition, Shrewsbury, go into Sunday’s clash flying high in their league, sitting second.
OPINION
West Ham have faced a busy schedule due to the Tottenham game being moved, and with them facing a relegation battle, Moyes might opt to scrap together a youthful squad that will be without several key players. Nicholas is right to suggest it will be a difficult day for the Hammers, but he underestimates how a high-flying Shrewsbury side will go into this game with nothing to fear. Shrewsbury have real chance of causing an upset in the FA Cup, as West Ham won’t be able to recover from the festive period quick enough as their squad lacks depth.