last season.

The Hammers have been playing a more fluid style of football this season as the intricate passing and movement that led to Andy Carroll's first goal shows

Allardyce's summer signings such as Sakho and Valencia have hit the ground running

In midfield, besides the controlling influence of Song and Mark Noble (under-rated and overlooked by England despite his ability in the midfield holding role), the energy of Cheikhou Kouyate has been important, although Kevin Nolan covered more ground than anyone.

Without this industry and commitment in midfield, it is difficult to get away with two strikers in the modern game.

At the back there are questions, which will eat away at Allardyce, a manager who likes to be solid. There will be times when the centre-halves are exposed by their ambitiousa genuine aerial threat, which can trigger panic among modern central defenders

THE FANS

Upton Park was deathly quiet at times during the game against Swansea, perhaps it was the nerves which came with the knowledge that a win would propel them to third place for the first time in 15 years.

It made you wonder what the atmosphere might be like at the Olympic Stadium. Maybe this is simply the changing face of football crowds: a bit more corporate and a bit more discerning.

By the end, they were in full voice, cheering the goals and celebrating the win. Presumably they enjoyed the style of football, although from behind the press box, there were desperate shouts to 'get it back in the box' for Carroll to head.

At least for now they