Grays friendly update

Fans are reminded that West Ham United will kick off the 2009/10 pre-season campaign against non-league Grays Athletic on Sunday 12 July.

Aside from players late back after international duty this summer, Gianfranco Zola is due to send a strong squad to take on Blue Square Premier outfit Grays Athletic at the New Rec, with kick-off at 3pm. It could even be the first chance to see any new signings in the claret and blue - depending on summer developments.

Grays chairman Mick Woodward said: "We are delighted that Gianfranco has agreed to bring such a strong squad to Grays for what will be one of only two games the first team play in England this summer. The other will be the Bobby Moore Cup in August so it is a real honour for us to welcome West Ham. We have already been inundated with people wanting to come to the game so we expect it to be a sell-out."

Tickets, priced at £20 adults and £10 concessions, will go on sale through both West Ham and Grays Athletic in mid-June. The match will be all-ticket, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Last season, a West Ham United XI made the short trip along the A13 to Grays, going down to a 2-1 defeat. Zavon Hines was on target for the Hammers, while former West Ham trainee Ishmael Welsh was among the scorers for the home side.

The club's pre-season tour arrangements will be confirmed in the near future. The Hammers will also stage the Bobby Moore Cup at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday 8 August against yet to be confirmed European opposition.

Fixtures for the 2009/10 Barclays Premier League season will be announced first on whufc.com at 10am on Wednesday 17 June. The new season will commence on Saturday 15 August.