Arnautovic fit and Pellegrini believes Rice will sign

© Peter Byrne/PA Wire

West Ham forward Marko Arnautovic has been passed fit for Saturday’s game against Manchester United.

Arnautovic picked up a knee injury during the recent win at Everton but has responded well to treatment and is expected to play this weekend.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday afternoon, Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini confirmed that Arnautovic had been given the all-clear after returning to training.

“He has worked with the squad, so I think he is 100 per cent fit for Saturday,” Pellegrini said.

Pellegrini also insisted he is confident Declan Rice will agree a new contract.

Highly-rated teenager Rice has turned down West Ham’s initial offer, reported to be worth around £15,000 a week, and his current deal runs out next season.

Rice has impressed in midfield for the Hammers this term and will not be short of offers from elsewhere, but his manager is not concerned.

“Declan I think must try to continue to have good performances, not thinking about more or less money at the moment,” said Pellegrini.

“Nobody at the club is stupid. He’s not a young player anymore and I don’t think he will have any problems with his contract in the future.”