COULD WEST HAM REALLY DO A LEICESTER?

IF the statistics (left) comparing West Ham 2021 to Leicester’s start to their sensational title-winning campaign in 2015-16 were not eerily similar, then how about these comparisons between the two teams...

CLAUDIO RANIERI v DAVID MOYES

The Tinkerman used pizza and his catchphrase “dillyding, dilly-dong” to inspire his players and made them hard to beat in a 4-4-2 with plenty of pace on the counter attack. Moyesiah generally sets up with a 4-2-3-1 and, just like Jamie Vardy with Leicester, Michail Antonio is key up front. And like Ranieri, Moyes is happy to shoulder all the blame and expectation.

HUTH/MORGAN v OGBONNA/ZOUMA

Leicester’s strength was from their central defensive axis of Robert Huth and Wes Morgan. Experience and hunger. West Ham’s first choice pairing of Angelo Ogbonna and Kurt Zouma has an experienced Italian defensive kingpin coupled with a French international full of pace, enthusiasm and quality.

N’GOLO KANTE v DECLAN RICE

When people think of Leicester’s title success, it was Kante’s incredible energy and work rate covering every blade of grass which made the difference. Now, Rice is the heir apparent. He is the shield – and, just like Kante, is making himself the most wanted midfielder in the Prem.

RIYAD MAHREZ v SAID BENRAHMA

They are both the jokers in the pack. Able to produce something different when needed. Mahrez was plucked from obscurity, was unpredictable and could unlock stubborn defences. Benrahma is exactly the same.

JAMIE VARDY v MICHAIL ANTONIO

Such a similar story. Had to work their way up into the Premier League through the school of hard knocks. Vardy’s pace was key and Antonio gives West Ham a focal point up front. If anything, the fear is being too reliant on them.