Whilst a number of sides were in action last weekend West Ham found themselves in a training camp in Dubai.

Not too shabby a trip, then, but like their punters here at the Transfer Tavern we are sure they would have much rather been in FA Cup action – but that wasn’t to be after a hammering by Man City.

However, much to delight of our Hammers punters it appears Andy Carroll and Arthur Masuaku were both back in training after spells on the sidelines.

This is a great boost for the side who have been slowly creeping up the league table and now aren’t a million miles away from the Europa League spots.

And with victory over Watford this weekend that will only help to improve the club’s chances of European football next term.

They’ll have to be on form, of course, and so with that in mind, Slaven Bilic simply has to put this starting XI out to get one over on the Hornets…

GK: DARREN RANDOLPH

The shot stopper won’t be losing his place any time soon and it’s very likely that the Republic of Ireland number one will keep his place between now and the end of the season.

Why change something that has worked so well?

RB: SAM BYRAM

Brought to the club by Bilic from Leeds with the future in mind, he has made a great impact at the club and was sorely missed during his time on the sidelines.

The young English full-back has been solid when he’s featured this season!

CB: JOSE FONTE

The former Southampton captain has been a great addition to the Hammers’ back line and has really helped to shut up shop at the back.

A solid performer whose experience could be vital in the last stages of the Premier League season.

CB: WINSTON REID

The New Zealand international has been a rock at the back for the Irons this campaign even in their not so convincing times.

He is at no risk of losing his spot anytime soon!

LB: ARTHUR MASUAKU

This decision will divide many at the bar here at the Tavern, but we feel Masuaku will be selected over Aaron Cresswell. Both have had injury issues recently and he may just get the nod ahead of the Englishman.

CDM: PEDRO OBIANG

A stand out star for West Ham this season, he’s very much in contention for the Hammer of the year award.

The former Sampdoria midfielder has been ever present this season purely for just how important to the side he has been! His link up play is superb and he’s also a great last line of the midfield and has made some very vital tackles in times of need.

CDM: CHEIKHOU KOUYATE

Kouyate has played in a number of different positions for West Ham this season but his best and most consistent is easily defensive midfield.

He’s beloved by the Hammers faithful here at the Tavern and with his solid performances and you cannot argue with that.

LAM: ROBERT SNODGRASS

Since arriving from Hull City, Snodgrass has been a superb addition to the squad and has, along with Manuel Lanzini, helped the club replace Dimitri Payet pretty easily!

The Scotland international has shown terrific ability to get the ball into dangerous positions and has caused his opponents all kind of issues.

CAM: MARK NOBLE

You can’t really put together a West Ham starting eleven without ‘Mr West Ham’ himself Mark Noble in the team.

He has had a mixed season so far with some really good displays but at times hasn’t shown the class he did last term. That’s been the case for a number of the West Ham players this season, though.

RAM: MANUEL LANZINI

This lad has been an absolute revelation since arriving at West Ham from the Middle East last season.

The 24-year-old can play pretty much anywhere along the front line and has shown tremendous skill at times for the Hammers. It’s unlikely that from here on out he won’t be a regular feature for ‘Super Slav’.

ST: MICHAIL ANTONIO

This guy has been superb since breaking into the side last term, after arriving from Nottingham Forest.

His journey has been incredible, from the non-league to a Premier League star. Antonio has been probably the most versatile player for the Irons, having played most positions on the field! With Carroll just returning to fitness, it’s very likely he’ll make an appearance from the bench in this one with Antonio to start up top.

Thoughts, West Ham fans? Let us know below!