Kouyate update

Cheik Kouyate is back on the Hammers training pitch and very much in line to take his ace against Southampton on Saturday.

The Senegal midfielder was reported to have taken some bumps and bruises after a competitive African Nations Cup tournament.

But we are told that after being thoroughly checked over the 27 year old has been declared fit and ready to battle for inclusion in Saturday afternoon’s squad.

The question is whom he will replace after Pedro Obiang produced an untypically poor performance against Manchester City although skipper Mark Noble is more likely to make way after a number of lack lustre and laboured displays.

Sofinae Feghouli’s days also look to be  numbered at the club with Robert Snodgrass looking certain to make his first full appearance against Saints after making a real impact after he arrived as a late substitute in the 4-0 Wednesday evening drubbing by Manchester City.