Allardyce ponders new formation to bring in Baldock

After Saturday’s stalemate at The Den, West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is considering changing his formation for Saturday’s home clash with Peterborough United.

The Hammers manager has opted to play a lone striker in every league game this season, but he may well revert to a 4-4-2 formation at Upton Park this weekend as he looks to incorporate Sam Baldock into his starting line-up.

The former MK Dons striker made his debut as a late substitute at Millwall and looked lively and with the Hammers expected to beat Posh handsomely on Saturday, Allardyce may well opt for a more attacking approach.

Baldock played 16 minutes of the goalless draw and he was pleased to finally get his chance.

“It was good to finally run out in a West Ham shirt, I’ve been waiting a while,” said the 22-year-old striker.

“It was quite a good game to get involved in, there was a great atmosphere and I was pleased to get on to the pitch.”

Baldock never carved out a chance during his time on the pitch, but he is hoping for better things soon.

“The players around me have got the ability to create chances for you so I was just trying to be lively and make something happen.

“It didn’t fall for me at Millwall, but hopefully I can get a chance in a big home game next Saturday.”

Winger David Bentley is also expected to start the match in place of Frenchman Julien Faubert after a useful cameo display at The Den, while Allardyce will then decide between Mark Noble and Henri Lansbury for the final midfield place.

Papa Bouba Diop has received his international clearance and is now in full training. He is also likely to make the bench with James Tomkins set to miss the game with a groin strain.

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