The Whites head into the game in fine spirits, following their 3-1 win over Burnley last weekend.
The last time Leeds faced West Ham, back in September, David Moyes' side stunned their opponents at Elland Road, as they came from a goal down to win 2-1, with Michail Antonio scoring the winning goal in the 90th minute of the match.
Speaking ahead of the big cup tie against the Hammers, Leeds full-back Luke Ayling gave some insight into his views on being deployed in a more central role against Burnley, and said: “I enjoy playing centre-back to be honest.
“I grew up playing there for Arsenal as a kid, I spent my childhood playing there, then I got moved to right-back at Yeovil and have played there ever since.
“I love playing right-back and see myself playing there but I've played right-sided centre-half quite a lot in a three, which I really enjoy. If I get called upon to play centre-half whilst there's a lot of injuries, I don't mind doing it. I feel like I can do a job there, I enjoy it.”
He added: “I lead the way I've always led, even when skip's in the team. He's (Liam Cooper) around the place every day and he's still the leader around here, I'm just my happy self and get people up.
“It's vital he's (Marcelo Bielsa) here. He got us players who played in the Championship sitting ninth last year in the Premier League. Things haven't gone as to plan this year but I'm sure we can turn it around and get back to that form.”
Take a look at today's biggest stories from the Premier League, as the build-up to this weekend's third round action continues:
7. Traore on Spurs wish list
Spurs could be set to launch a fresh attempt to sign Wolves' Adama Traore, as Antonio Conte looks to shake up his squad in January. He came close to joining the north London club last summer, but Wolves were said to have got cold feet and pulled out of the deal. (The Athletic) Photo: Naomi Baker
8. Hornets step up chase for Phillips
Watford have joined the likes of Burnley and Eintracht Frankfurt in the race to sign Liverpool defender Nat Phillips. The 24-year-old is said to be valued by the Reds at around £12m. (Football Insider) Photo: Marco Luzzani
9. Palace leading Nketiah chase
Crystal Palace have been named firm favourites to sign Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah ahead of Brighton. The ex-England youth international looks set to leave the Emirates this month, as the Gunners aim to cash in on their talent before his contract expires in the summer. (Various) Photo: Ryan Pierse
10. Bees join Johnson race
Leeds United face fresh competition to sign Nottingham Forest winger Brennan Johnson, with Brentford now emerging as candidates to sign the in-demand youngster. The Bees are believed to have seen a £12m bid knocked back, but an extra £3m could seal the deal. (Football Insider) Photo: Michael Steele
11. Race hots up for Wallace
Leeds United and Watford have both been credited with an interest in Millwall midfielder Jed Wallace. The ex-Wolves man could, however, opt for a move abroad, with Turkish giants Besiktas also understood to be chasing the 27-year-old. (The News) Photo: Jacques Feeney