By Sam Tonks
The 2017/18 Premier League is underway, although the London Stadium must wait for the first match to be played at the home of West Ham United, on September 11th. As fans look forward to returning home, one player is making his imminent comeback from injury, Manuel Lanzini.
The Argentinian has missed the first two games of the campaign, visits to Old Trafford and St Mary’s, but Slaven Bilic has confirmed he is back in training and could be in contention for the Hammers' trip to St James' Park this weekend.
Eight goals and two assists earned him runner-up in the Player of the Year awards at the club last season, but his winner against Spurs to end their title hopes was the highlight of the season for many West Ham supporters.
“Manu was one of the main players for West Ham last season and he is one of the best players in the squad,†said fellow Argentinian Pablo Zabaleta.
“Of course, he, Andy Carroll and Cheik are all important players and hopefully we will have all of them available on Saturday.â€
Since Dimitri Payet departed in January, the attacking midfielder has stepped up as their creative hub, feeding the likes of Andy Carroll, Michail Antonio and Andre Ayew.
The timely return of Lanzini can kick-start West Ham’s season as they look for their first win of the season. Following Marko Arnautovic’s red card, there’s even more importance placed on his shoulders to help provide for new man Javier Hernandez.
A trip to Newcastle United precedes the Claret and Blue debut this season at London Stadium, Huddersfield being the visitors.
Five of Lanzini’s eight goals were scored in Stratford, hopefully he comes back firing in time for a first game in front of home fans.Â
