MONDAY'S glamour visitors, Chelsea, are enjoying a wonderful season courtesy of some former Hammers. It is Joe Cole who has been in brilliant form lately and grabbed all the headlines and, sorry home fans; Frank Lampard has been his normal consistent self.
This is a game where West Ham has nothing to lose, so I don't really see the point of sitting back and inviting Chelsea on. I'm sure Alan Pardew doesn't need me to tell him that the Hammers must get at them from the start and ensure the fans get behind the team in the early stages.
Chelsea's defence will be a tough nut to crack, as it's by far the best in the Premiership with former West Ham Academy youngster, John Terry, outstanding. But, the Hammers won't be worried about reputations as every team and every player can have an off day when put under pressure by a side that is going for broke.
The first game of 2006 at Upton Park promises to be a great occasion - let's hope the Hammers kick off the New Year in great style.