Sheffield United (2-3-1) vs. West Ham United (10-4-6)
Sheffield United vs. West Ham United 01/21/24 – The upcoming face-off between Sheffield United and West Ham United on January 21, 2024, is a crucial English Premier League match, sure to draw the attention of soccer aficionados and bettors alike. With Sheffield positioned at 2-3-1 against West Ham’s more robust 10-4-6, the match promises to be a riveting clash at Bramall Lane. As premium experts picks are being keenly sought after, this encounter is not just a battle of skills and tactics but also a test of strategic betting insights.
Offensively, Sheffield United have shown promise despite their lower standing. Their attacking players, such as Oliver McBurnie (3 goals and 1 assist) and Oliver Norwood’s midfield presence (1 goal) cannot be underestimated. Unfortunately for them however, West Ham have proven a formidable defense – so Sheffield must use their home advantage wisely and be decisive when striking against West Ham’s defense to break through it and score goals against them.
West Ham United boasts an equally potent offensive lineup, led by Jarrod Bowen who has scored 11 goals and 2 assists so far this season. Mohammed Kudus and Tomas Soucek have also played significant roles in midfield for West Ham’s attackers; these midfielders’ contributions will test Sheffield’s defensive capabilities which despite goalkeeper Wes Foderingham have shown vulnerabilities at times during games.
Sheffield United vs. West Ham United 01/21/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 9:00 AM ET |
| Where: | Bramall Lane |
| TV: | TELE |
| Stream: | TBA |
Wes Foderingham GK vs. Alphonse Areola GK
Veteran keeper Wes Foderingham has faced a barrage of shots this season behind Sheffield’s porous defense. In 20 starts, he has made 91 saves while allowing 46 goals for a saves percentage of 66.4%. His 46 goals allowed is third-worst among EPL goalkeepers. Foderingham has registered just one clean sheet while accumulating 20 fouls suffered and two yellow cards. He possesses decent reflexes but has been hung out to dry behind Sheffield’s shaky backline throughout the campaign.
Alphonse Areola has posted slightly better numbers in goal for West Ham this season across 17 starts. He has notched 68 saves compared to 23 goals allowed for a 74.7% saves percentage. Areola has been credited with four clean sheets and has yet to commit a foul or pick up a card. While not spectacular, the Frenchman has been steady. However, he hasn’t faced the high volume of shots that Foderingham has seen this season. Areola seems to have a slight edge over his counterpart in this fixture. But if Sheffield can pepper him with attempts, they may be able to break through for a goal or two.
Soccer Odds/Point Spread: West Ham United -127, Total Odds: 2.75
The current betting odds favor West Ham United, reflecting their superior league position and recent form. The point spread of -0.75 for West Ham indicates expectations of a win by at least a one-goal margin. For bettors, these odds offer insights into the expected flow of the game, with West Ham emerging as the favorites.
Sheffield United Betting Trends
The Blades are just 1-3 straight up in their last five matches and have gone over the total in two of those. However, they have covered in four of their last five against the spread. Sheffield is an impressive 5-5 against the number in away fixtures this season.
West Ham United Betting Trends
West Ham has played well lately, winning four of their last five contests. However, they have struggled against the spread, going 2-3 ATS in their last five. The Hammers have been dismal away from home ATS, covering just one of their last five road matches.
Sheffield United vs. West Ham United 1/21/24 Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and betting trends, the game is leaning towards a West Ham victory, but not without a strong challenge from Sheffield. The key for Sheffield will be to exploit any defensive lapses from West Ham, while West Ham will aim to maintain their solid form and capitalize on their offensive strengths.
For bettors, the smart EPL picks and previews suggest leaning towards West Ham for the win but being cautious about the spread. The total of 2.75 goals is a tricky one, given both teams’ recent trends. Prop bets on individual player performances, especially the top scorers from both teams, could offer value.
Free Pick and Prediction: West Ham United 2, Sheffield United 1.