Three things that we learnt: West Ham 1-1 Stoke City

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Hammers lacking in the striking department

While the inexplicable antics of Adrian in the West Ham goal may have been key in throwing away a hard fought lead in the game the home side, on the whole, looked somewhat disjointed and devoid of ideas or creativity for long spells.

Whilst the Hammers may have dominated possession, play was often restricted to their own half of the field whilst Payet and Manuel Lanzini struggled to get on the ball and exert their influence on the game.

In short, the Hammers needed a focal point to their attack. Simone Zaza has been unimpressive since his move in the summer and was left on the bench, Andy Carroll is currently side-lined through injury, and Andre Ayew, who was making his first start since recovering from an injury picked up on the opening day of the season, looked off the pace and lacking in match sharpness.

West Ham were neat and tidy in possession but lacked a central figure that could hold up the ball in the final third of the pitch and bring others into the game and Bilic will certainly be looking to strengthen in the striking department when the transfer window opens in January.

Featured Image: All Rights Reserved Habergaraj (Habergaraj).