The West Ham fans are in the Transfer Tavern tonight and they have a bit of optimism about them leading up to their opening day fixture against Man U.

The 2017/18 season can provide a fresh start for West Ham following on from a disappointing campaign last time out for the club.

The fresh start hasn’t been made any easier by the fact that they will be visiting Old Trafford on the opening day of the season as they challenge Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United.

Following on from some successful attacking transfers into the club with former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez joining the club from Bayern Leverkusen.

However, United have made a host of world class signings themselves which won’t make the Hammers’ life much easier on the opening day.

Stopping any attacks before they come to fruition with a solid midfield can be key to a potential upset for West Ham and on that note, here is the midfield that Slaven Bilic must start for West Ham against Manchester United.

CM:Mark Noble

West Ham captain Mark Noble is a modern-day Hammers legend.

He is undoubtedly the first name on the team sheet and has been one of the most consistent performers for the London club over the past decade.

His leadership along with his technical abilities on the ball always have the chance of causing any opposition problems and West Ham fans will be hoping that this game will be no different.

CM: Pedro Obiang

Pedro Obiang’s season was cut short during the 2016/17 campaign due to an ankle injury but before then, he was a key part of Bilic’s side.

More of a defensive minded midfielder, Obiang’s presence on the pitch allows Mark Noble to have a bit more attacking freedom which is always good.

The Hammers tend to do better when he is in the side and if he can come back in time for the opening game which at the moment could go either way, he will play a huge role at Old Trafford.

CAM: Manuel Lanzini

The Hammers’ jewel, Lanzini needs a big season after starting to show his potential on a more consistent basis last term. Indeed, the playmaker will be tasked with being his side’s main creative outlet this season and may be able to find some pockets of joy in the United defence.

What do you think West Ham fans? Let us know down below.