We caught up with Dean Ammi from Read West Ham for a chat on what Sunderland fans can expect from the Hammers this Saturday. We also take a look at all things West Ham and Sunderland ahead of the weekend’s crunch clash at the Stadium of Light.
1) How are West Ham fans feeling about life so far under Bilic?
We are absolutely loving it. It’s been marvellous; a massive breath of fresh air and already records are being made. Having already won three away games this season, this equals the tally of wins on the road from last season already.
2) Why is it that the Hammers have such a good away record so far this campaign?
Bilic has a brilliant track record in the big game. He is brilliant at motivating the team, and always has a game plan of how to counter any opposing threats. Some say it’s down to luck, but a 100% away record is no mean feat.
3) What can Sunderland expect from West Ham this Saturday?
Sunderland can expect a tough game. West Ham have not dropped any points on the road all season, and will be looking to pick up three points once again. Diafra Sakho is back to his goal-scoring ways, and he will be most likely helped out by the likes of Victor Moses and Dimitri Payet behind him.
4) Is there a player in particular who Sunderland should be wary of?
It just has to be Dimitri Payet. He is a provider. Our last game against Tyne-Wear opposition was decided by him, as he bagged a brace in our first home win over Newcastle. Sunderland will need to avoid giving him pockets of space to drift around in.
5) What do you make of Sunderland’s season so far?
Woeful, awful and comical. Dick Advocaat fluked survival in my opinion at the backend of the last campaign, as there were three teams worse than Sunderland during 2014/15. Now however, in spite of signing some decent players in Lens and M’Vila, there just seems to be no teamwork and it’s almost as if the dressing room is non-existent. I would be worried if I was a Black Cats fan.
6) Finally, can we get a score prediction from you?
A comfortable away win for the Hammers, but I would predict that the hosts would still nick a goal. Sunderland 1-3 West Ham.
