Luke Chadwick says that his move to Upton Park came "out of the blue" - but he is delighted it has happened.
"It is great to come to such a great club as West Ham and I am looking forward to playing for them," he says.
"I was away with Manchester United in America and the offer came out of the blue but I jumped at the chance to come to West Ham and it has worked out well for me.
"I never really played for United during the last couple of seasons, spending my time away on loan to various clubs. I had a great time at Old Trafford and really enjoyed it, but now it is time to move on - and hopefully this move will be a good new start for me.
"It is difficult to breakthrough at Manchester United with so many world-class stars there, but I am really looking forward to playing at West Ham.
"I have only had two days of training but I am really enjoying it and it is nice to get to know the players.
"I just want to start playing and do well and hopefully I can push on."
Luke has certainly had a good grounding at Old Trafford, and he adds:
"It is a great place to learn how to play football with first-class coaches and fantastic players to learn from."
He has also played for Reading and, last season, Burnley on a temporary basis, and he says:
"It was a good experience there, as it was at Reading when I was on loan, so that has stood me in good stead and hopefully I will have a good time at West Ham."
Luke was in the Burnley side that drew 2-2 at Upton Park last season and he recalls:
"Yes, I played there last season for Burnley and the atmosphere was great, probably one of the best games I had been involved in last season. It is a fantastic stadium.
"I have only played there the once, so obviously I don't know the West Ham fans that well, but I'm told it is a passionate crowd and it will be a great experience playing here."
He intends to help West Ham back to the top flight at the earliest opportunity, and adds:
"The goal for everyone outside the Premiership is to play in it. I am still confident in my ability and hopefully the chance to be back there will come this season.
"It is a very hard league to get out of but with the players, fans, and stature of the Club there is a great opportunity of gaining promotion.
"I hope to prove myself and want to stay long term but that is up to the manager."
Luke knows he faces competition for a place on either flank, however, and adds:
"There are good players all along so it is going to be hard but hopefully I can prove myself and get in the team.
"I don't have a preference for left or right - I just want to get in there, keep my place and settle in quickly."
He had met three of the players from before, and says:
"I know Teddy from Manchester United and Matthew and Michael from the younger England teams.
"Teddy has got such great experience and brilliant ability so I am sure he will bring a huge amount to the team."