David Moyes is optimistic that Kurt Zouma will be available for the game against Newcastle at the weekend.
However, Issa Diop staged a big claim for inclusion in the team after a fine display at Leicester City and with Craig Dawson producing a seven out of 10 performance plus a goal. the Hammers are looking in good shape at the back again.
Diop’s assist for Jarrod Bowen’s opener was top class and he went on to produce a very good display after his recent failures at the back.
Whether he plays or not remains to be seen for when asked if Zouma would be back Moyes declared he was optimistic the central defender would be available for selection after sickness.
He is quoted in the London Evening Standard on the player’s position and said he had returned early to London as he didn’t want him passing anything on to the rest of the squad.
He said: “It was a sickness virus so I would expect so (be available for the weekend).
“He was ill before the game, wanted to play, we wanted him to play as well. He was sick during the night, he stayed away from the players and did not eat much. Once he got out he did not think it was possible.
“We told Issa Diop to be ready. It is a stomach bug, probably something he has eaten.”