It may well be the first game of the season today, but make no mistake, the pressure is very much on West Ham and Graham Potter.

Following the debacle that was last season, fans in the east end of London are desperate to see a corner is finally being turned, from one that has been a club in decline since lifting a trophy over 2 years ago.

The trip to face newly promoted Sunderland today, although maybe seen as a tough start, represents an opportunity for Potter to get the season up and running in a positive manner.

Although last time out it was a campaign to forget, one thing Potter did provide was a far more resolute team and one that was able to handle away occasions well.

The atmosphere today is expected to be carnival like, but that may well play into the hands of West Ham and Potter, who will be hoping our Premier League experience will be enough to overcome what Sunderland have in store.