WEST HAM will bid to put Wednesday night’s Carling Cup disappointment behind them by progressing in another cup competition, the FA Cup, with Nottingham Forest the visitors to Upton Park.

The game could afford Hammers fans a first glimpse at new striker Demba Ba, who this week signed from German club Hoffenheim.

Gary O’Neil, another January acquisition, could be given his first start for the club after making his debut in midweek, when West Ham were beaten in extra-time in the semi-final by Birmingham City.

Manager Avram Grant may elect to rotate his squad with one eye sure to be on Wednesday’s Premier League encounter with Blackpool.

Forest, riding high in the Championship and chasing promotion, will pose stiff opposition, with Lewis McGugan likely to be the main threat going forward.