Michail Antonio offers ‘definitely’ verdict in score prediction for West Ham United v Crystal Palace in Premier League

The Irons switch focus back to the Premier League after a late 1-0 win in the Europa League clash with Backa Topola in midweek.

David Moyes’ men have won four games in a row in all competitions but have a poor recent record against Palace, having lost home and away to them last season.

Asked on the The Players Channel podcast if West Ham are targeting a victory, Antonio said [1 December, 37:58]: “Yeah, definitely. It’s always a game we believe we can win.

“Last year was one of those years where they managed to get the six points off us, but this year is a new year and we’re going for the three points.

“I do believe it’ll be a win, and I’m going to say 2-0 to West Ham, especially after the result [Palace] had last week. A nice early goal will give us a nice coasting to finish the second half.”

Antonio has stuck his neck on the line with this bold prediction, which the Crystal Palace players will no doubt have been made aware of ahead of the game.

That said, there is nothing wrong with one of the club’s own players showing some confidence. Just imagine if he’d predicted a draw or loss!

While United lost both league games with Palace last season, they have never lost three in a row in this fixture in their history.

Antonio’s wish of an early goal may well come true, but it will not necessarily mean a routine victory.

That is because the Eagles have conceded the opening goal in each of their past four Premier League victories against West Ham.

The Irons finally have some momentum on their side once again after a shaky period, and hopefully this winning run continues with a win over our London rivals.

In other West Ham news, a pundit has tipped the Hammers to follow Tottenham’s lead when it comes to making a decision on Moyes’ future.