The Irons have been named by Ladbrokes as outsiders for a place in the top six next season.

Although admitting they hardly set the wold alight last term, the leading bookmaker says: “With a sturdy defence to build on (they conceded just 10 more goals than Arsenal) and a new directive to excite, they have the armoury to push on to bigger things this season.”

And they add: “Should World Cup star, Enner Valencia, pass his medical, Sam Allardyce will have the perfect “little and large” strike force to make the Hammers more potent, with the Ecuador international partnering Andy Carroll.

However, despite their optimism Ladbrokes have the Irons best priced at 28/1 to hit the top half dozen.

Stoke City (14/1) and Crystal Palace (33/1) are the other two dark horse clubs given as possibles for the top six.