West Ham started their 216-2017 Premier League campaign with a defeat at Stamford Bridge against Antonio Conte’s Chelsea. A goal from Collins was sandwiched between the strikes from Eden Hazard and Diego Costa. Bilic and his team will now take on Bournemouth on Sunday at their new home, The Olympic stadium. Bournemouth themselves are coming into this match on the back of a 3-1 defeat to Manchester United. Payet started the last match on the bench but will be expected to start on Sunday, with very few other changes to the starting XI. Here is the predicted starting XI that Bilic might opt for against Bournemouth.
Goalkeeper: Adrian
Adrian had a good match against Chelsea, even though he conceded twice. There were some crucial stops to deny Hazard and Ivanovic. He is the number one keeper for the Hammers and should start between the sticks on Sunday.
Defenders: Michail Antonio, James Collins, Ried and Arthur Masuaku
With Aaron Cresswell injured many thought that Bilic might give Sam Bryam a chance, however, he chose to put new signing, Arthur Masuaku in the starting XI against Chelsea. He did well and should slot in at left-back, with Antonio as the right-back. In the centre, it will be Reid alongside the goalscorer from Monday, Collins. Ogbonna is another player who will be contending for that central spot, however, it is unlikely the boss will wanna shift his defense around so early in the campaign.
Midfielders: Kouyate, Nordtviet, Payet, Feghouli and Mark Nobel
There could be a few changes to midfield, after summer signing Andre Ayew picked up an injury early on in the last match. Bilic might see this as the perfect opportunity to bring in Payet on the left-wing. The Frenchman will be raring to go for London club after an excellent European Championship. On the other wing, it could be another new signing Feghouli, who missed the last match due to an injury but has looked really threatening in the summer. Noble will take his place in that number 10 role. Nordtviet and Kouyate will form the central midfield partnership. Both the players disappointed slightly in the last match, therefore will be under pressure to get going soon.
Striker: Andy Caroll
Caroll will be hoping for better service on Sunday, after spending much of the Monday night alone up front. His hold play is excellent and crucial in bringing the likes of Payet and Feghouli in the game.
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