Ludo: Steve Can Do It

Ludek Miklosko is backing Steve Bywater to be fine between the sticks at Sheffield United - and says his team mates are, to pardon the pun, right behind him.

"I think it is a great chance for him which he definitely deserves," says Hammers' goalkeeping coach.

"He is at an age where he should be starting to play first team football - he is 22 years old and was working hard after his injury problems and everything.

"But now he is fit and everything is up to him - if he grabs it he will keep his place."

There are no signs of nerves, reveals Ludo, who adds:

"He was fine, absolutely relaxed and looking forward to tomorrow."

And a good reaction from his colleagues towards him getting back into the spotlight?

"Yes, definitely; I spoke yesterday in training with Christian and they are very positive - and they like him as well," he says.

As for the sale of David James, he adds:

"I think it was just a matter of time before a Premier League club would come for him.

"Now the transfer window is open we expected someone would come in because he is England's number one - we knew this would happen."

Alan Pardew has of course brought in Rami Shaaban from Arsenal to provide competition, and Ludo adds:

"He is a goalkeeper who has got good experience and I think he can do the job for us now we need him.

"We were talking about plenty of keepers who would be available; we discussed it all together and picked him."

Could the deal become permanent?

"Everything will be seen after the month or so - it depends on him and also how he performs," he says.

As for the trip to Bramall Lane, he concludes:

"It will be a big, big game for us; there have been a lot of changes in the team and it would be nice to keep the away from going."