Moyes & Hodgson-The Oldest Swingers In Town!

With a combined age in excess of 135 years to say David Moyes and Roy Hodgson were experienced would be an extreme understatement! Roy Hodgson is often mocked for not being able to pronoince his 'R's and has been nicknamed 'Woy' Hodgson, but it should be remembered that 'Woy' can drop his 'R's' in FIVE different languages, Swedish, Italian, English, French and German.

Today's London derby which Hammers host, could be labelled a 'clash of the old guard', or a 'meeting of the oldest swingers in town' Both managers have been round the block more times than they can remember and both managers are stubborn bordering on the obdurate!

Both managers are currently dealing with injury crises but then so are most other Premier League managers, some more than others! Moyes played his cards very closely to his chest when 'cross examined' about the mystery virus that struck several key players down, so it will be interesting to see who makes the starting line up and indeed who makes the match day squad.

One player in particular who could have a massive influence on the game IF he is available is Jarrod Bowen, injured while training with England during yet another 'pointless' International break. The winger come forward is vital for the Irons, his penetrating runs and exquisite finishing have been sorely missed!

One player who DOES need to up his game is James Ward-Prowse. His early impact on the team has diminished as the weeks have gone by, he REALLY needs to deliver and perhaps scoring a direct free kick is all he needs to get himself back on track while beating David ` Beckham's record at the same time.

Realistically a top six finish is probably beyond Hammers even at this stage of the season, but seventh would be enough to ensure an amazing FOURTH year in Europe on the spin. It is unlikely that Hammers will win the Europa League nor the Carabou Cup, so unless the FA Cup draw is kind a high league position is the only guarantee of a place in Europe next season.

There are those who say that playing Thursday Sunday is detrimental to the club, but that is the price of success, a success that makes the club more attractive to 'top talent' and long may it continue! Unfortunately this afternoon's game between two 'patched up' sides is unlikely to be a classic, IF Hammers can get three points or even a decent draw it will help set the team up for what is going to be a 'frenzied' pre-Christmas schedule of a game every three days!

At least the temperature won't be sub zero, it is to be hoped that the players don't play sub zero! - LN