New West Ham signing Kurt Zouma has been billed as the ‘most likely’ of the summer arrivals to see first-team action from the start. 

The 26-year-old Frenchman joined the Hammers in the final days of the transfer window, completing a £29.8million switch from London rivals Chelsea (Sky Sports). 

The centre-back joined fellow countryman Alphonse Areola at the London Stadium before Nikola Vlasic and Alex Kral arrived on deadline day. 

According to a detailed report looking into the Irons squad depth from Football London, as cited on Twitter, Zouma could be the first to enter David Moyes’ starting lineup. 

The report cites the eight-times capped ace’s ‘wealth of experience’ and a worrying defensive record in Moyes’ side as a reason for utilising Zouma early. 

A former Everton loanee, the powerful defender has amassed 165 Premier League appearances following a move from Ligue 1 side Saint Etienne in 2014. 

READ WEST HAM VERDICT

Despite making an unbeaten start to the new season, five goals conceded in the opening three matches is a worrying trend. 

Boasting a distinguished, trophy-laden career, the Frenchman certainly has the credentials to slot straight into the West Ham backline.

Valued at £28.8milion (Transfermarkt), Zouma will be hoping to make an immediate impact in solidifying the defence. 

Should Kurt Zouma Start Against Southampton?

Yes

No