Transfer windows can be forgotten temporarily as the real thing returns and West Ham have travelled up to the Stadium of Light for the first fixture of the season. Recent years have been something of a banana skin event- the [Hammers](https://www.claretandhugh.info/hammers-finally-get-e20m-transfer-offer-but-for-the-wrong-player/) have the worst, bar none, record for opening day Premier League results.
But records are meant to be broken so maybe this is the start of Graham Potter’s new beginning: Having had the squad all summer with a few additions, Potter gets to play his way now. With Fullkrug fit, Diouff looking well capable of delivering those killer crosses and Freddie Potts hopefully re-inforcing the midfield, it is time for new season optimism as Graham Potter unveils the first West Ham XI of the season:
West Ham United
Hermansen, Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Aguerd, Diouf , Rodriguez, Ward-Prowse, Paquetá, Bowen Fullkrug
So by my reckoning that is two Premier League debuts today for Diouff and Hermansen. _Rodriguez instead of Potts or Alvarez. What?_
We’ll have Gonzo’s player ratings and a match report shortly after the final whistle so check back at 5pm for all the talking points.
Come.On.You. Irons.