Marko Arnautovic has shrugged off a minor knee problem and looks certain to be included in the side to meet Wolves this afternoon.
The Hammers hero has been a slight doubt all week but the reports are that he has declared himself fit and that the medics are ready to let him take his chance in what Manuel Pellegrini has described as a “must win” match.
It’s a well worn phrase of course but its unquestionable that on this occasion it is entirely appropriate as the team look to leap from the foot of the table.
With fellow strugglers Huddersfield away at Arsenal, Southampton at Palace, and Cardiff and Burnley facing Arsenal and Manchester United tomorrow (Sun) there is an obvious and important chance for the Hammers to make a healthy jump.
Arthur Masuaku is likely to retain his position whilst Jack Wilshere is near certain to return.
Likely team: Fabianski; Fredericks, Balbuena, Diop, Masuaku; Sanchez; Snodgrass, Wilshere, Yarmolenko; Anderson, Arnautovic
Hugh, I don’t believe for a second Wilshere will start today. Pelle is an experienced manager and he must surely know that he needs to start his best team today. He has said this is a must win game so I expect him to make the correct calls. Wilshere has been deplorable and when he plays we are basically playing with 10 men from the start. I don’t expect Pelle to make the same mistake today.