In his very own column in the Daily Mail, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic has stated that he is adamant that Frenchman Dimitri Payet will remain a Hammer past the summer, even if big clubs come calling for his services.

I know then that the giant clubs will come but I would love him to stay at West Ham. We have texted each other over the last three weeks and he is happy at the club. He is our player.

The creative-midfielder who joined the East London side from Ligue 1 club Marseille ahead of last season, had an almighty first-season in the Premier League, and has gone on to impress on international duty with France at Euro 2016 too.

Payet’s performances have led to many big clubs around the world, including Real Madrid and Chelsea, showing an interest in his services, but West Ham boss Bilic is relucant to sell his star man.

29-year-old Payet went on to make 30 appearances for the Hammers in his first season at the club, netting on nine occasions, including several beautiful free-kicks.

Boss Bilic has ruled out reports that he wants Payet to have a poor game in France’s semi-final clash tomorrow evening with Germany to fend off interest in his stalwart.