Slaven Bilic’s buoyed West Ham boys host net-shy Newcastle

Also excelling under new boss Bilic has been playmaker Dimitri Payet, whose creativity in attack could be complemented by new signings Nikica Jelavic, Michail Antonio and Victor Moses, who are 5/4, 7/4 and 11/4 chances in the anytime market respectively.

Meanwhile, Geordie battering ram Andy Carroll (5/1 to fire the final shot) is in contention for a return to the fold following a lengthy injury absence, and will be aiming to challenge dangerous Diafra Sakho (5/1 to score first) for the sole spot up top against his former club.

Guests Newcastle, 12/5 to draw or outsiders at 23/10 for victory, will miss hot-headed hitman Aleksandar Mitrovic, suspended after seeing red last time out, but have plenty of options left in attack.

Given that the Hammers have conceded six goals at home so far this season, Steve McClaren’s side should be going for the jugular, but lack spark, having scored just two times in the league.

Looking to solve this drought may be Spanish striking talent Ayoze Perez (15/8 to bag anytime), or more experienced peer Papiss Cisse, with promising Frenchman Florian Thauvin (9/4) and Dutch midfield maestro Geroginio Wijnaldum (10/1 to be first on target) providing threats from midfield.

The travelling Tyneside team will take heart from their excellent away record at Upton Park, having lost just two of their past nine tussles there, but will need to show much more potency if they are to exploit there hosts’ rearguard weaknesses.

Betting tip: Place a stake on the Hammers at 18/5 to notch three or more