EFL Cup - Hammers to thrive in home comforts

FOOTBALL analyst Ben Levene (@benlevene96) dissects Wednesday night's EFL Cup action and picks out his best bets.

West Ham v Macclesfield | Wednesday 26th September 2018, 19:45

West Ham have finally clicked into gear under Manuel Pelligrini. The Argentines squad have looked impressive since returning from the international break and have the quality to continue their good run, even when much changed.

The likes of Aaron Creswell, Ryan Fredericks, Robert Snodgrass and Javier Hernandez should start and against a Macclesfield team who have lost three of the bounce, I expect the Hammers to cruise to victory without any issues.

The Silkmen have failed to win any of their six away matches this season scoring just once in their last three travels.

At home, on a big pitch, West Ham should be able to wear down their League Two opponents.

A West Ham win ‘to nil' is 11/13 with Sportingbet.

Tottenham v Watford | Wednesday 26th September 2018, 19:45

Tottenham ended a run of three consecutive loses when victorious at the Amex on Saturday.

It’s been clear since the start of the season that Spurs’ World Cup stars have looked leggy and on Wednesday they could finally be awarded a rest. We can expect Mauricio Pochettino to ring the changes and leave out key cogs such as Harry Kane and Christian Eriksen.

Factor in that this game is being played at Stadium MK, and we have fair reason to oppose Spurs – and we haven’t mentioned Watford yet.

The Hornets have made a flying start to the season and although Javi Gracia will make changes too, Watford can keep their momentum going.

Nathaniel Chalobah was described as a potential £50million player by Troy Deeney last week and having recently returned from injury, he’ll come in.

Isaac Success, Kiko Femenia and Ken Sema have all player a part in the Hornets’ strong start from the bench and there’s no reason they can’t perform when given a go from the start.

I’m keen to back Watford +1 on the Asian Handicap. It sees our stake void should Spurs win by the one goal, and a winner paid if Watford achieve any better result.