Michail Antonio boldly claims West Ham will finish above Liverpool this season

West Ham forward Michail Antonio has tipped West Ham to finish above Liverpool in the Premier League this season.

West Ham, who are enjoying a bright start to the new campaign, have lost just one of their opening five games despite losing captain Declan Rice to Arsenal earlier this summer.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have also begun the season well, dropping just two points so far and are currently three points above David Moyes' side.

However, the Hammers have the chance to close that gap with a win over Jurgen Klopp's men at Anfield on Sunday in what looks to be a tasty six-pointer.

And Antonio is feeling confident ahead of the contest, even predicting that they will finish above Liverpool in the table.

Speaking on the Footballer's Football Podcast, Antonio said: “I am backing myself over Liverpool. You know what, I think we are going to finish higher than Liverpool this season. I’m putting it out there.

“I watched the game [Wolves vs Liverpool] because it was before our game and Wolves could have run away with it. They had quite a few opportunities. We’ve got them this weekend and it’s a six-pointer.”

In response to his bold prediction, Newcastle striker Callum Wilson, who is the other half of the podcast, replied: "Michail, wake up. I think he's having one of those dreams again."

There is also a chance that West Ham and Liverpool could meet in the latter stages of the Europa League should both teams advance in the competition.

Although Wilson is not expecting Liverpool to prioritise the competition over the Premier League, suggesting that a European clash with West Ham would be unlikely.

"This year there are some big teams in the competition, the likes of Liverpool," Wilson explained. "I don't see you winning it this year, but I wish you all the success."

When quizzed on who he thought would win the Europa League, Wilson responded: "West Ham! I don't want to be too harsh on West Ham because it's only Michail I don't like, not the West Ham fans."

Topics: Football, Liverpool, Michail Antonio, Premier League, West Ham United, Europa League

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno