West Ham’s dream spine come February

Manuel Lanzini

Bilic has been chopping and changing formation over recent weeks, but one man that is always at the heart of his midfield is Manuel Lanzini.

And Dimitri Payet’s refusal to play could see the Argentine become the focal point of this West Ham team.

The 23-year-old has risen to the challenge in recent weeks with a goal and fine performance against Crystal Palace a fortnight ago, as well as two assists in their 3-1 win over Middlesbrough last time out.

Lanzini is clearly relishing the role in the centre of Bilic’s midfield, and he’ll become an increasingly important player for the club over the coming weeks should the Payet situation not improve.