Irons look certain to be without defender for Toon clash

By Hughie Southon

West Ham look certain to be without Kurt Zouma for a critical game against Newcastle United at the weekend.

The big central defender is still struggling with injury as the Hammers go into a game which is as important as any they have faced this season.

Thankfully both Nayef Aguerd and Oggy look to be in very good touch but it would have been a real bonus to have the former Chelsea man back in central defence.

Claret and Hugh was told earlier this afternoon that Zouma looks a certain absentee as the Hammers travel to St James Park.

We were told by a key source: “He is certainly not 100 per cent and looks certain to miss out  as a result.”

Moyes  – judged on previous experience may well decide to go with five at the back which would mean including the error prone Kehrer with Coufal and Cresswell on the right and left sides,