Pellegrini keen to show Hammers’ Euro credentials

Manuel Pellegrini is hoping West Ham will prove they are worthy of top-six talk ahead of Man United clash.

West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini says beating Manchester United on Sunday would showcase their credentials for a top-six finish (West Ham 12/5, Draw 13/5, Manchester United 6/5 – Match Betting).

The Hammers host Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men on Sunday afternoon currently eighth in the table after a fairly strong start, which has seen them pick up eight points from five games.

They were well beaten 5-0 by defending champions Manchester City on the opening day but are unbeaten in their four Premier League clashes since.

A win against United, who were in Europa League action on Thursday, would see them leapfrog United in the table, and, depending on other results, could see them climb into the top six.

And, Pellegrini says that even at this early stage of the season, a victory could be vital in seeing if they are ready to compete for a place in Europe (West Ham 33/1 – Top Four Finish).

“Manchester United played last night but they changed nine players so it will be a different team,” Pellegrini told reporters. “We’re in a good moment, so if we are playing against the big teams, we must show we can play in the same way.

“But that doesn’t mean we are going to beat United. We beat them 3-1 here and I hope we can get a win again.

“I never set a target for our team before the season. We have a very strong team in front of us, it will be a strong test against United. It is the only way we can get into the top six, demonstrating you are able to do it.”

The Hammers are set to welcome back Aaron Cresswell to the side in place of the suspended Arthur Masuaku, while Manuel Lanzini faces a late fitness test.

Frenchman Sebastien Haller (13/8 to score anytime) will be looking to add to the three goals he has already scored this season.

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