Avram Grant is relishing seeing a packed stadium this afternoon as he takes charge of his first competitive match at the Boleyn Ground.
The manager was grateful to fans for the backing they have given to him so far and expects his squad to rise to the occasion against Bolton Wanderers. "We had a home game two weeks ago and the supporters were great.
"They were also great in the last game against Aston Villa. The supporters are good and we will try our best to make them happy. The reception was good. The most important thing is that they are behind the team like they were last week."
Grant was also delighted with Carlton Cole's commitment to the cause as underlined this week by the England striker. "It's good when any players shows loyalty to the team and to the supporters. The supporters pay money to watch the team and we need to give them respect.
"I like very much the way Carlton did this and I like it also that he stays with us. It's the right decision because this is a good club - a club with ambition. We want to do the right thing. This is the reason we went to a programme for next season as well as this season and I'm happy the players want to be part of this."
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The manager also praised those behind the scenes doing their bit to keep West Ham United moving forward. "I must say, everyone in the club is trying to do their best. They are also dealing with the financial problem.
"I would be more happy with a few more million to spend but I know the situation. When you know the situation it is easier to deal with it, last year [at Portsmouth] we didn't know the situation. Every hour was different every day and it was very difficult.
"In West Ham it is a big, big challenge. I enjoy it because I like the tradition of the football here and we will do our best. Also in the future I think we will have more money to spend.
"The owners are trying to do the best for the team. You must know that if the owners did not buy West Ham then West ham could have been bankrupt. They try to help the team and it's great for West Ham they are trying to do their best. They told me that if we pass this year there will be more money.
"We need to take the club to the next level."