West Ham fans in the Transfer Tavern are looking for a more positive season for their side.

Whilst there was always going to be a bit of animosity following the switch from Upton Park to the more spacious London Stadium at the start of last season, not many punters in the Tavern expected Slaven Bilic’s men to perform like they did in their wonderful season in 2015/16.

Bilic has managed to regain his position as the leader of West Ham and our landlord believes that consistency will be a defining feature if Bilic is to shrug off any early season pressure from the fans and press a like.

With that said, it is a common view from all in the Tavern that Bilic was let down by a lot of his senior players last season and if the Hammers are to climb up the table, certain individuals in the Irons’ line up really have to step up.

This has sparked a real debate among the regular Hammers in the Tavern and they have outlined two players who simply must pull their socks up and impress Bilic in pre-season in order to gain his trust.

Let’s take a look at them here…

Mark Noble

Arguably the most honest footballer within the Premier League, Mark Noble would have known that his performances last season were not good enough and he will be chomping at the bit to prove he still has the drive to perform in pre-season.

Bilic needs his leadership and the Hammers fans in the Tavern are hoping that last season was an off season and Noble can galvanise the troops and lead them up the table this season.

Jose Fonte

There is no doubt that big things were expected from Fonte following his January move from Southampton and our landlord has stated that the Portuguese international must prove himself again to Bilic this pre-season.

At 33, Fonte has all the experience to lead this West Ham defence – the question is now whether or not he is past his sell-by-date which is why this pre-season is a big one for him.