Slav’s radical Everton selection options

Slaven Bilic is set to name a defensive formation as the Hammers bid to take something from a tough-looking clash against Everton this weekend.

CandH has learned that with Andy Carroll injured and Diafra Sakho unlikely to play a lengthy role, a defensive approach is expected.

With his front man options limited but with Aaron Cresswell and Winston Reid fit, some radical options emerge for the boss should he take the opportunity of employing them.

It may well be that although Sam Byram misses the game through suspension, Bilic will opt for a five-man defence which could see either Havard Nortveidt or Robert Snodgrass drafted in as an emergency right-back alongside Winston Reid, James Collins, Jose Fonte and Arthur Masuaku.

Were the choice to be Snodgrass he will also push forward as did Michail Antonio during his days in the role although the threat of Leighton Baines down the left side looks “awkward.”

The midfield would presumably see Cheik Kouyate and Edmilson Fernades paired together with the interesting possibility of Cresswell on the left with Lanzini tucked in behind Ayew or Sakho – although the Senegal international could play a limited role.

However, we would expect the manager to take the safe option of playing Nortveidt with Snodgrass used in his usual role.

Slav’s likely team (5-3-1-1): Randolph; Nortveidt, Reid, Collins, Fonte, Masuaku; Snodgrass, Kouyate, Fernandes; Lanzini, Ayew.

CandH Team (4-4-1-1): Adrian; Nortveidt, Reid, Collins, Masuaku; Snodgrass, Kouyate Fernandes, Cresswell; Lanzini, Sakho.