The London derby should be a real treat for the fans as both sides desperately need points from this game in order to come closer to realizing their ambitions. Tottenham need a victory so as to remain in contention for the Champions League places, whereas West Ham need at least one point in order to clime back to safety.

Tottenham showing signs of fatigue

Tottenham have just achieved a historic success as they made it to the Champions League quarter-finals after eliminating mighty Milan, but Spurs need to focus on their Premiership campaign if they want to play in Europe’s top competition next season. With a number of important players on the sidelines, it is no wonder Spurs have struggled to cope with the busy schedule of late, with under-par performances against Blackpool, Wolves and Milan in the return leg the perfect proof. However, it is likely that Harry Redknapp’s side will have benefited from the ten-day break and they should return to their best when they host West Ham. With van der Vaart and Bale back to the side, Spurs are expected to rediscover their impressive scoring form, although the defensive worries look likely to continue as the back line will be pitted against very good West Ham attackers.

Gareth Bale should start his first game in two months after recovering from injury, but William Gallas is a doubt with a hamstring problem. Tom Huddlestone, Wilson Palacios, Younes Kaboul and Jonathan Woodgate remain in the infirmary.

West Ham continue to impress

Despite some disappointing results during the first part of the season, West Ham definitely don’t look like the team that should be relegated and their fans are delighted the good performances are finally rewarded with an improvement in the Premiership standings. The Hammers significantly improved their survival chances with home victories over Liverpool and Stoke, so they won’t be too downhearted by the last weekend’s FA Cup defeat to Potters. With Parker, Noble and Hitzlsperger bossing the midfield, players like Cole, Ba and Piquionne are finding it easy to hurt opposition defenders, as a result of which the Hammers are scoring goals for fun. Avram Grant’s side scored no less than 16 goals in last 5 games, so we have reason to believe they will continue the great run at White Hart Lane, especially seeing that Spurs will be leaving a lot of space behind.

Gary O’Neill returns to the side having been cup-tied for the FA Cup clash with Stoke, while Robbie Keane has returned to full fitness but is ineligible to face his parent club. Junior Stanislas is doubtful, while Collison and Kurutz remain long-term worries.

Verdict

With both Tottenham and West Ham playing attractive attacking football of late, everything suggests we will see an enthralling encounter at White Hart Lane. Tottenham are the favourites here but with the Hammers playing so well lately, I would rather back both teams to score.

Our prediction: Both teams to score

Odds: 1.83 (5/6)

Bookmaker: Victor Chandler