We have seen Newport County on a few good cup runs in recent years and we could be about to see them go on another. They begin their EFL Trophy campaign on Wednesday night with a group game against West Ham U21, and this is a game they are fancied to win.

We often see Premier League teams play weakened youth teams in this competition and with The Hammers having a few of their better youngsters away on international duty, that is exactly what I think will happen here. I don’t believe Newport will play their strongest team either, but with just a handful of changes, they should be too strong for the expected West Ham youth team.

While this won’t have the same feel to it, we have seen some big Newport performances at home in the cup in recent seasons, and those memories will play a big part here. They don’t need to be afraid of playing West Ham, they should be up for it and should relish the challenge of beating these youngsters. Although they are wearing a West Ham shirt, this is a youth team, and more than likely a second string one at that. This gives Newport a big advantage in the game, and that can be enough to get them over the line.

Newport vs West Ham U21 Betting Tips

We are likely to see Newport make some changes here, but only a handful and that doesn’t worry me too much. Squad players who have not had the chance to play yet will see this as an opportunity to shine and hopefully they take it. West Ham are playing their youth team here, but are missing some players due to international duty so expect this to be a weakened team.

With that in mind, I fancy Newport here to get on the board in their first game of this competition, and beat West Ham. They are known for playing well in cup competitions, and that can be seen again in this one, I am backing Newport to take the points.

Newport to beat West Ham U21 at 2.35

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