Difficult one to predict this one. With Chester out, I wonder if SB will be a bit nervous of playing Faye and Elmo together on the right side of defence bearing in mind that Faye's not played and isn't the quickest, alongside Elmo's lack of experience in the position and his culpability for probably at least three of the goals we've conceded so far. On the flip side of that would he be prepared to risk Figueroa at either left or center back bearing in mind the long haul flights and only having got back yesterday. Having said all of that I don't expect Brucie to change a winning team other than where he hasn't a choice, so I think it'll be the same as last week but with either Faye, Figueroa or maybe even Bruce junior in place of Chester, although I think the latter is pretty unlikely. If West Ham do play 5 in midfield, we might stick with 4-4-2 but could also opt for 4-3-3 with the ball and 4-5-1 without it.
Sneaky feeling Boyd might start. Whilst Graham is knocking on the door for a goal I think Sagbo might start. As for Chester's replacement the head says Faye - he has something to prove, but think he will play his lad.
I just wonder if Steve Bruce will go back to his 3 - 5 - 2 formation to combat West Ham and how they line up. 4-5-1. If he does and taking it all into account then dont rule out this line up. McGregor Rosenior Davies (c) Figueroa Elmohamady Huddlestone Livermore Quinn Brady Aluko Graham subs:- Harper - Bruce jnr - Faye - Boyd - Meyler - Proschwitz - Sagbo.
I would expect to see Rosie play as a 3rd centre back when we have Faye and Bruce chomping at the bit to start. I still dont think we will see 352 this season, unless injuries dictate, but in Bruce we trust!
I never thought I'd say this, but, Lawro actually makes some sense for us this week: How come Noble only missed one game? I thought a red card meant 3 games?
Not keen on Quinn starting on the right with Elmo behind him .I expect most of their threat to come down their left flank. We were pretty toothless down our right against Newcastle and if Brady is not fully fit Quinn could play Left Midfield with the FIG behind him .
