Following the star signings over the past few months of the summer, fans would never have thought in their wildest imagination that the Hammers would go into the international break from the last position. Getting in the likes of Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Javier Hernandez and Marko Arnautovic, Slaven Bilic had clearly learnt how to not make a transfer blunder, unlike last season. However, one thing that he didn’t learn from is how to win games.
Upon the departure of Dimitri Payet last season, the winger had stressed about the defensive nature of Bilic’ tactics and the Irons have looked quite easily submissive so far this season. While the defeat to Manchester United looked predictable, Bilic’s men should have run over Newcastle United and Southampton given the available squad.
Amidst heavy speculation, the Hammers failed to land Sporting Lisbon’s William Carvalho. The signing of the EURO 2016 winner could have significantly improved the London based club.
Bilic resumes his season next week with a lot at stake and as a sack just hiding around the corner. However, the available squad is surely capable of turnings around. Predicted West Ham United lineup with all new signings-
Defence
Joe Hart starts under the bar. The Manchester City loanee is easily one of the best shot-stoppers in the business retaining brilliant reflexes. But, he can do little if his back line is so easily penetrable. The case was same with Adrian and Randolph last season.
Bilic have experimented with the three-man defence and four-man defence in the past two seasons and is right to go with a back four setup as it gives them much more stability. Aaron Cresswell and Pablo Zabaleta will take the defensive flanks, while Angelo Ogbonna and James Collins take the central defence.
Midfield
The pivotal duo in the central midfield has been Bilic’s biggest problem since the last two season seasons. Their buy of 18-year-old Sead Haksabanovic was not understandable by many. Alongside someone like Cheikhou Kouyaté, Bilic needed a good passer that skipper Mark Noble hasn’t provided at all. However, they are the best available options with the Croatian gaffer at the moment.
The number 10 role is yet another weak link for the side but Manuel Lanzini remains a good option.
Attack
With Marko Arnautovic suspended at the moment, the likes of Andre Ayew and Michail Antonio could come in handy, but the Austrian remains a significant cog in West Ham’s wheel. Chicarito is the only player to have proven his potential this season and he will have to do that a lot many times for a successful second stint in the Premier League.
