Lincoln City host Premier League West Ham United on Wednesday (27th September), as they look to provide another Carabao Cup upset.
This is West Ham’s first Carabao Cup game of the season, while Mark Kennedy has led his team past Notts County and Premier League Sheffield United so far.
Both teams come into the game on the back of defeats, as despite Hakeeb Adelakun’s first goal for 17-months, Lincoln City lost 2-1 to Portsmouth on Saturday and West Ham United fell to a 3-1 defeat at Liverpool the following day.
Lincoln are now without a win in four games after draws against Bristol Rovers and Carlisle United, before a loss at Derby County in the EFL Trophy pre-empted the Portsmouth defeat.
Opposition: West Ham United FC
David Moyes led his team to European glory last season, as they clinched the UEFA Conference League with a victory over Florentina in the final. This season, they compete in the Europe League, and began their campaign with a 3-1 win over Serbia’s Backa Topola on Thursday.
West Ham currently sit 7th in the Premier League, with ten points after the first six games of the season.
The Hammers have scored at least once in each of their games so far this season, so provide a threat in front of goal. Jared Bowen leads the way with four goals in six appearances this term.
Summer signing James Ward-Prowse also provides threat, with two goals and five assists to his name since he joined from Southampton.
Team News:
Lincoln are an injury hit team. Forwards Tyler Walker, Ben House and loanee Jake Vale are all out for the long-term, as well as defender Lewis Montsma. Mark Kennedy will be hoping that top-scorer Danny Mandroiu can return in time for West Ham’s visit.
West Ham are without such concerns as they travel to Lincolnshire with a squad free of injuries.
Head-to-Head:
This is the first meeting of the two sides since 1982. West Ham came away 2-1 winners on that occasion, in the League Cup. Lincoln’s manager for that game was Colin Murphy, who the club will honour with a minute’s applause before kick-off on Wednesday following his recent passing.
In their history, Lincoln have faced West Ham 23 times. They have won seven, drawn six and lost ten. However, in their first meeting in 41 years, the odds are in the favour of David Moyes’ team.
Played for Both:
Goalkeeper Peter Grotier is a name that both Imps and Hammers will recognise. He began his career at West Ham, playing 50 games between 1969 and 1974. He then swapped East London for Lincolnshire and played 233 games for Lincoln, from 1974 to 1979.
It will be a tough test for Lincoln City as they try and cause another cup upset. Lukas Jensen’s heroics were the difference-maker against Sheffield United, but it might be time for another Imp to steal the headlines at the LNER Stadium.
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