EPL: Newcastle v West Ham preview

Newcastle v West Ham preview

West Ham's Manuel Lanzini could make his first appearance of the season when they travel to Newcastle United

The 24-year-old missed the Hammers' Premier League defeats to Manchester United and Southampton, as well as the Carabao Cup win at Cheltenham, after suffering a knee injury in pre-season.

However, manager Slaven Bilic said: "He was back with the squad on Monday, and he looks really sharp.

"Of course he's hungry, because he was missing while he was injured...he is definitely going to be involved in the squad, and we will see how much we use him."

Both West Ham and Newcastle are without any points after their opening two games of the season.

 

The Magpies started with a home loss to Tottenham before a 1-0 defeat to fellow Premier League new boys Huddersfield. That was followed by an early exit in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday after an extra-time defeat to Nottingham Forest.

"We have to move forward quickly. Getting three points in the next league game is our objective," said manager Rafael Benitez. "I have confidence the team will improve if we keep working the way we are now,"

 

Newcastle winger Rolando Aarons faces a late fitness test after picking up a knock against Forest.

Keeper Karl Darlow is out with a thigh problem, while Jonjo Shelvey completes his three-match ban and defenders DeAndre Yedlin and Paul Dummett (both hamstring) and Florian Lejeune (ankle ligaments) are still out.

 

Andy Carroll is back in West Ham training after his latest lay-off due to a thigh problem and will be assessed.

Winston Reid (calf) is the only definite injury absentee while Marko Arnautovic is still suspended.