Jarrad Bowen To Start? | 3-5-2 West Ham United Predicted Lineup Against Southampton | OneFootball

West Ham United will host Southampton in their upcoming game of the English Premier League at the London Stadium. The Hammers are 17th in the points table with 35 points in 32 matches. They have won nine matches, drawn eight, and lost 15 so far in the league. The Hammers are coming to this game on the back of a 2-1 loss against Liverpool in their previous game in the Premier League.

During the last 47 meetings, West Ham United have won 21 times, there have been 12 draws, and Southampton FC have won 14 times. Cresswell (injured), Summerville (fitness), and Antonio (injured) might miss the game for the Hammers due to injury. In this article, let us take a look at the predicted lineup of West Ham United against Southampton.

3-5-2 West Ham Predicted Lineup Against Southampton:

Defense:

Here is how the back four will look for the Hammers during this game: Areola, Todibo, Mavropanos, and Kilman look solid but not impenetrable. Areola’s shot-stopping is reliable, though his distribution can wobble under pressure. Todibo’s pace and ball-playing ability add class, but he’s still settling in. Mavropanos brings physicality, yet his occasional lapses in positioning could be exploited by Southampton’s quick forwards. Kilman’s consistency anchors the trio, but their lack of cohesive game time together might show. Southampton’s direct style will test this unit’s communication. If they stay compact and avoid individual errors, West Ham can hold firm, but any slip could prove costly.

Midfield:

The midfield of Wan-Bissaka, Soler, Ward-Prowse, Paqueta, and Scarles is expected to feature in this game. Wan-Bissaka’s defensive nous at wing-back is a plus, but his attacking output remains limited. Soler’s work rate and vision should knit play, though he is yet to fully gel. Ward-Prowse’s set-piece mastery and passing range are vital, but he needs space to dictate. Paqueta’s creativity can unlock defenses, yet his discipline wavers. Young Scarles brings energy but lacks experience. Against Southampton’s pressing, this group must balance control and intensity. If Paqueta clicks, they will dominate; if not, they could be overrun.

Attack:

Bowen and Kudus will lead West Ham’s attack in a 3-5-2. Bowen’s relentless runs and clinical finishing make him a constant threat, especially cutting in from the right. Kudus, with his dribbling wizardry and knack for the spectacular, can dismantle defenses single-handedly. However, their partnership is still developing, and both can drift out of games if service from midfield falters. Southampton’s backline isn’t the tightest, so spaces will be there to exploit. If Paqueta and Ward-Prowse feed them consistently, Bowen and Kudus could run riot.