Renowned pundit Paul Merson has shared his prediction for the upcoming Premier League match between Crystal Palace and West Ham United, tipping the Eagles to secure a 1-0 victory at Selhurst Park.

Merson expressed his confusion over West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui’s decision to start only two of the team’s eight senior signings in their previous match against Aston Villa. “I was baffled by that decision,” he said. “It doesn’t matter how many talented players you sign unless you actually put them on the pitch from the start.”

Both Crystal Palace and West Ham United had disappointing starts to their seasons, and Merson believes the Hammers will struggle to bounce back. “Let’s face it – both teams were disappointing in their first games,” he said. “West Ham signed all these attacking players and didn’t use any of them from the start.”

With West Ham eager to get their season back on track, Lopetegui is under pressure to secure a win. Changes are expected to the starting lineup, with Niclas Fullkrug, Crysencio Summerville, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka potentially coming in.

Merson’s prediction adds to the pressure on West Ham United to perform, and it remains to be seen if they can turn their season around with a win at Selhurst Park.