West Ham v Cardiff Preview

I think it's safe to say that I'm delighted that the season is finally underway. It goes without saying that I'm excited for what this season might bring and I don't doubt for one second that there are thousands of Hammers fans that feel the same way. Journalists, pundits and season previewers have tipped us for the title let alone promotion so yet again the weight of the world is on our shoulders. Talk about pressure! It's fair to say that Big Sam's had a pretty hefty clear out and I very much doubt that it's totally over with Barerra, Parker, Cole and Green all being linked to moves elsewhere. He's brought in experience and talent and not taken any gambles, something who he who must not be named did last season with Barerra and Reid, with one paying off and looking set to play a pivotal role this season and the other being linked to a move elsewhere.

It's been suggested that Allardyce will use the 4-5-1 formation and this is how I think we'll line up:

With the club announcing that Faubert is likely to be out for two weeks with an injury I decided to leave him out and put O'Brien in his place and the same goes for Faye at centre back replacing him with Reid. It's a huge season for the club and it's re-assuring to see that Allardyce doesn't appear to of taken any risks with big money signings or offering contracts to injury prone players. As I said earlier on in the week, he realises the amount of pressure that is on his shoulders and knows that failure to win promotion will see him sacked and quite possibly leave any chance of him managing a Top 4 club at virtually zero. Prediction? Cardiff are a strong side and know the Championship off the back of their hand, they'll prove a difficult opposition but I think we'll prove too much for them and end up eventual 2-0 winners. Goalscorers? I'm feeling lucky and going for Nolan and Taylor - talk about sticking my neck on the line. All I can say to the fans that are there is sing your hearts out, get behind the team and make sure you rattle the roof with I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles. Come On You Irons!

In other news, Allardyce announced today that the club are in talks with John Carew and have decided not to offer Forsell a contract at the end of his trial. It is understood that at the end of his trial Jlloyd Samuel as also not been offered a contract as-well. Bids for Maynard and Monloungui have also both been rejected however it is thought that we are talking to a defender thought to be from Sunderland. Upton Park reunion for McCartney or Ferdinand anyone?