Let's Do This!!!

Yes We Can!

Europa League, Preseason friendlies, Betway cup de blah blah. Arsenal on day one of the Premiership is the real thing. Although the Hammers have only managed two draws in their last fifteen Premiership tussles with the Gooners, this side is different. After a few seasons of steady squad improvement under Big Sam, and having spent another £25 million in the off season, Hammer's fans will be forgiven for believing that they are ready to compete with the top six.

Moreover, with Slaven Bilic at the helm there is a greater sense of purpose. Bilic has been ruthless in his preparations to date, having spurned the Europa League in favour of the Premiership, including today's big kick off away at the Emirates. For sure, there's still plenty to do in terms of building a truly top class squad (Song, Austin and another winger?) but the side has class throughout and will face today's game with a level of confidence that they have not had for many years.

Bilic has given an assurance that the Hammers will not 'park the bus' today and his team selection backs that up with Sakho, Zarate and Payet leading an exciting attack. Mark Noble captain's the side, with Cheikidh Kouyate alongside him in midfield. The CB pairing of Reid and Ogbonna will be interesting, while the selection of young Reece Oxford sends out a strong message of intent and will undoubtedly please many fans who felt that the younger talent got little or no chance under Allardyce.

We are ready to rock!!!