The Hammers take on Arsenal on Saturday [30 November] as they look to build off their 2-0 win against Newcastle United last time out.
However, they face a tough game and, after a 5-1 win for the Gunners against Sporting CP in the Champions League, they will no doubt be feeling confident going into this one.
Sutton feels it will be a tight game between the two sides, although he believes that the Norweigan ace Odegaard will be the difference as he offered his Premier League predictions for BBC Sport [29 November].
He said: “Julen Lopetegui really needed Monday’s win at Newcastle after a difficult start as West Ham boss.
“He and his side will be buoyed by that but this is not a good time to be playing Arsenal, who are purring again now Martin Odegaard is back from injury.
“The Gunners were not in great form without Odegaard, but he makes them a different proposition and I am going to say he will make the difference in a very tight game. Prediction: 0-1”
Can West Ham build their momentum?
After a much-needed win against Newcastle at the start of the week, West Ham will surely be a bit frustrated that it’s Arsenal who come next rather than a side that might be slightly easier to play against.
Although the Gunners had been facing a poor spell prior to the international break, since returning they have scored eight goals in two games across the Premier League and Champions League, suggesting they are a team who have now found their form, aided by the return of captain Odegaard.
West Ham
Nevertheless, it is vital that Lopetegui shows there has been a proper change in his side and that there are signs of progression going forward as there remains plenty of speculation surrounding his future at the London Stadium.
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