English Premier League: Four things to watch in West Ham’s 18/19 Season

That opening day fixture against Liverpool isn’t all. West Ham faces four of the top six in the opening weeks, and teams like Wolves and Bournemouth too.

If, as expected, points are hard to come by, then how the club and fans respond is crucial. Last season, the club faced mutiny and fan riots, but if any success is to be had, they must stand together.

Response to injuries is also key, as the Hammers have had a terrible injury record recently, particularly in mid-season. Keeping the best players fit and well rotated is pivotal, but strength-in-depth is the best way to avoid this issue.

Showing a united front is key, as is unanimous support of the manager. Oh, and it would help if the owners curbed their use of social media in times of trouble.

Do they have the grit to back the flair?

On the face of it, the Hammers arguably posses the best attack outside the top six. But don’t let it fool you – they are lacking a solid spine in midfield and they know it too. Two centre backs have arrived, but no real defensive midfielder has, meaning midfield troops are thin on ground.

In the preseason, Pedro Obiang has flattered to deceive, and Cheikhou Kouyate has been his standard inconsistent self. Only time will tell if and how this will affect the team. It’s all well and good to have flashy auxiliary attackers, but an incoherent spine will always hamper you.