Mark Noble expecting tough Premier League opener against Tottenham Hotspur

West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble has admitted that his side faces a tough opener to the Premier League season against Tottenham Hotspur.

The Hammers get their league campaign underway at home to their London rivals on August 16.

Despite West Ham recording three wins over Spurs in all competitions last term, Noble is expecting a tricky start to the new season.

"The fixtures are out for the new season and they don't come much bigger for us than a London derby against Tottenham Hotspur," he told the club's official website.

"We did very well against them last season with three deserved victories and we will of course want that to continue, but we also know that they will be tough opposition with their players wanting to impress their new manager and everything, so we will need to be on our toes from the very start."

Noble scored three goals in 39 appearances for West Ham during the 2013-14 campaign.