Tonight’s clash against Hull City has all the elements of developing into a very spicy affair indeed both on and off the pitch!

Tigers boss Steve Bruce is anxious that a blue touch paper could be lit by the Hull City fans in front of the TV cameras.

And with anxious Hammers fans looking for three points, the atmosphere could become pretty torrid if things go wrong.

Alongside all of that, is the strong possibility that Mohamed Diame’s first appearance for the Tigers will ensure  a red hot welcome from the Irons travelling faithful.

Hull chairman Aseem Allam’s declaration that he is to appeal, against the FA’s decision to block his name change to Hull Tigers has thrust a thorny issue back into the spotlight.

And Bruce is worried that supporters unhappy with the decision may use the high profile TV match to make their point.

He said: “It (the atmosphere tonight) can’t be fractious. Because if it is, then it helps no-one.

“My appeal to all of the supporters is that they can have their thoughts but, once it gets to match-day, we need them to get behind the team.

“We really need them to do that, as if it becomes fractious then it becomes difficult. And when it becomes difficult then it can affect the team. That is why I appeal to the fans.”

Bruce and  Sam Allardyce are big pals and the Hammers boss too will be desperately keen for a win after the shocking home display against Southampton.

Our prediction: Hull City 1 West Ham United 1