West Ham United midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate has been away with Senegal recently.
Slaven Bilic has admitted in the London Evening Standard that West Ham United miss Cheikhou Kouyate every time he doesn’t play.
West Ham have been without Kouyate recently, as he has been representing Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Three Manchester City players Mancini could bring to West Ham, if he takes the job
The Hammers felt Kouyate’s absence badly in midweek, as they were beaten 4-0 by Manchester City.
And Bilic his hinted that the powerful midfielder could return to West Ham’s starting line-up this weekend, when they take on Southampton.
“For Southampton, we expect to have Cheikhou Kouyate back in the squad,” Bilic said.
Ian Wright slates Slaven Bilic’s tactics during West Ham’s match against Manchester City
“He’s back from playing for Senegal in the African Cup of Nations, he trained with us yesterday and should be ready.
“Cheikhou is someone who definitely has that kind of physicality which we lacked against Manchester City. “Every time he doesn’t play you miss his physical presence, as was the case in those two previous home defeats, by Arsenal and then Manchester City in the FA Cup.”
Whether Kouyate will start for West Ham against Southampton remains to be seen.
The Hammers need to bounce back in the contest, after what was a poor display against City.
Pep Guardiola’s side tore the Hammers apart on Tuesday evening, in what was another frustrating night at the London Stadium.
West Ham are currently in 11th place in the Premier League table, after what has been a disappointing campaign so far.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
