AMIDST the usual manager – speak ahead of the Newcastle United fixture on Sunday, Nuno Espírito Santo gave a big insight into what he is demanding of his side as the Hammers seek their first home win since February.

The traditional Premier League press conference produced no surprises on the fitness issues surrounding his squad, with the expected trio of players -Niclas Fullkrug, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Ollie Scarles – sidelined and taking no part.

But Nuno was also drawn into highlighting one specific individual’s performance and what he expects, demanding more from West Ham’s midfielder Lucas Paquetá.

‘West Ham’s Brazilian magnifico’ needs to live up to his nickname

The Brazilian has finally turned the page on his two -year FA inquiry saga and his head coach made it clear today that he wants Lucas Paquetá to step up:

“We need Lucas..Being a ‘ten’ is more than a number, in my view: Being a ‘ten’ is a symbol. Being the ‘ten’ and this is what we need from Lucas – the best of him to really help his team mates, because the team-mates trust him a lot and they know that there’s much more for him to give us, the...