And he says the players are determined to prove wrong those critical of Glenn Roeder's appointment as boss.
Michael was linked with moves to Arsenal and Newcastle in the close season and, although he did travel to the north east in the summer, that was simply a trip home to see his family!
"It's like anyone who has supported their home town club - one day you would like to play for them.
"But being linked with them was a load of nonsense really.
"I'm a West Ham player and intend to carry on that way.
"I'm over the moon here and we have a fresh start with Glenn, so I hope the team takes off in the right direction.
"We need a good start and that will hopefully give the fans or the critics a bit more confidence in us and ensure we stick together.
"The speculation is not unsettling and I don't really worry about it because we know what is going on behind closed doors.
"We all have positive vibes about the new season even if other people haven't.
"Funnily enough, even though Glenn has been involved for the last couple of years a lot has changed since he has become manager.
"It's a lot of little things rather than any big changes but it makes a lot of difference and the lads are all geared up for the new season.
"Glenn has got his ways and Harry had his - they are both their own men and the lads are responding well to what Glenn is putting forward."
One of those changes is keeping the training ground private except during school holidays, and Michael welcomes the move.
"Even on a Friday, if you are preparing for a big game and practising set pieces you want to do it behind closed doors," he says.
"You don't want one of the opposition spies coming in and knowing exactly what is going on.
"It's just one of those things; you want to prepare in the right way.
"Most clubs keep their doors shut altogether so twice a week is good for the fans."
As for the criticism of Glenn's appointment, he adds: "It is just one of those things with people jumping on the bandwagon.
"Good news isn't news, it doesn't sell so they try to make a big thing of it.
"Everyone at the club is sticking together though and is fully behind the boss and the board, and looking for a big season ahead.
"There is a good team spirit among the lads and everyone is gelling together. The attitude is spot on."
Now of course, Michael is a full international - does that change anything?
"It doesn't really make too much difference," he says, "though it does keep hitting you every now and then when you are out playing and training and that.
"But I'm just the same person playing the same way."
With Frank Lampard now gone, however, his role may alter a little, and he says: "We've probably got to take a little more weight on our shoulders but that's where you want to be. I'm looking forward to it."
And the chance to get forward more?
"It depends on who plays and what formation we have but I might do.
"The manager has spoken to me about getting forward and scoring more goals but I don't really want to set a target - especially with the way I have been finishing in training lately!
"As long as the team is winning I will settle for that, but I would like to get more goals."
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