David Moyes has been given a huge lift ahead of a crucial run of matches with his position teetering on the balance.

The West Ham manager, who oversaw a poor showing return to action in the loss to Arsenal, is now on the mammoth pressure to remain in the hot seat in East London.

The performance was one of serious concern with our Hammers looking lost for ideas and inspiration despite many weeks allowance to prepare for the re-start courtesy of the World Cup.

A player who was absent against the loss against the Gunners was Kurt Zouma, who has been recovering from a knee operation, is closing in on his return.

ExWHUEmployee, speaking on The West Ham Way Podcast, has reported that the French international is ahead of schedule in getting back to action.

“It’s positive news at the moment surrounding Zouma,” said our man-in-the-know. “He is ahead of schedule.

“As of now, he’s expected to feature in January.”

Its a big lift for the under pressure Moyes, with the club now in desperate need to get points on the board following a very disappointing season so far.

The boss is facing a must-win game on Friday against Brentford, but Zouma is not set to feature although Nayef Ageurd could well return in the London derby.