West Ham: First choice XI for 2016-17

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LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 10: Michail Antonio of West Ham United smiles after the Barclays Premier League match between West Ham United and Manchester United at Boleyn Ground on May 10, 2016 in London, England (Photo by James Griffiths/West Ham United via Getty Images) /

RB Michail Antonio

The only way to get Antonio into the strongest team is at fullback. His positioning may end up to be suspect, but outside of Sam Byram, he may well be the best choice on the roster.

When in the midfield, Antonio always diligently tracked back and defended well. He was used in a defensive role at times by Bilic though a few times is different from asking a midfielder to shift his natural position further away from the attacking 18 year box.

But, there won’t be enough minutes to go around in wide positions with Payet, Feghouli and Tore. As things stand, Antonio could conceivably be the fourth option in the wide midfield. Even if they play 4-2-3-1 and allow Payet to stay in the middle, then Antonio still isn’t a definite to get into the team.

Antonio is a good player and his versatility will be useful for West Ham this year. He’ll still be allowed to play in the midfield but to maximize his minutes, he’ll be in defense at times.

LB Aaron Cresswell

Since joining West Ham two seasons ago, the 26-year-old has been a constant on the backline for the London club. He’s only missed one Premier League game. He’s played in 75 out of the Hammers 76 league games.

Last season Cresswell scored two goals and assisted four more while handing in steady performances in the West Ham defense. His position is under no scrutiny and barring an injury, he’s set for another year of big appearances.

Next: Defensive midfielders

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