Mitchell's Dream Team

A hugely popular feature in this season's matchday programme was the My Dream Team section. For every match, a different Hammers player chose their favourite eleven but there was a different twist for the last one of the campaign.

Kevin Mitchell took time out of his preparation for Saturday's WBO interim lightweight title fight against Michael Katsidis at the Boleyn Ground to provide his all-time favourite West Ham United side. The manager? Well there was only one choice, and no one was willing to argue with the Dagenham-based boxer....

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Goalkeeper

Robert Green

Robert Green - The best at his job in the country. I like the way he goes about himself. He is always cool and calm, which you need at the back - especially when things aren't going the team's way. Concentration is key for a boxer in a close fight and it is the same for Rob when he is out there waiting for something to happen.

Right-back

Lucas Neill

Lucas Neill - He was a strong leader and held the team together when he came in and we were close to relegation. He had a maturity that we needed. I like the way he inspired other people and although he is an Australian like my opponent Michael Katsidis, he was an honorary EastEnder that knew what this club was all about.

Centre-back

Bobby Moore (Action Images)

Bobby Moore - There is no explanation needed. The greatest player this club has ever produced. I never saw him play live of course but I know he was a god with the ball. He commanded respect and was renowned around the world. My dad told me all about him when I was growing up.

Centre-back

Rio Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand - I like the way he plays and his style on the ball. He is a defender and can do the simple things but like a good boxer he has all the flair and agility you need to be a bit special. I will be watching the World Cup in the summer and hope he brings back the trophy.

Left-back

Julian Dicks

Julian Dicks - The only choice for me. He was a top player who set the standard for others to follow. Like me, he was never afraid of a fight but he could control his aggression in the right way. I loved watching him play and I know he will be cheering me on when I fight.

Right midfield

Joe Cole

Joe Cole - A lovely man who came to the gym recently. He is so level-headed it is unbelievable, just like Mark Noble - another who has done brilliantly out of the East End. I like to see people who are at the top of their game but it hasn't gone to their heads. He's playing in the cup final on 15 May and then coming along to the fight. We will celebrate together.

Defensive midfield

Scott Parker
 
Scott Parker - Simply the best. He is the reason where we are this year and I love his never-say-die mentality. That is the spirit I want against Katsidis and that will inspire me to do my best. He plays with his heart and there was no other choice for Hammer of the Year.

Attacking midfield

Trevor Brooking


Sir Trevor Brooking - Another one who my dad has told me all about because he used to watch him every week. Everyone knows who he is and he has done West Ham proud as a great ambassador for sport. He brought the last major trophy back with the 1980 FA Cup final and I am going to follow him with the belt in two weeks' time.

Left midfield

Matthew Etherington

Matthew Etherington - He is a good friend of mine. He had pace and all the skill you need to be a winger. I have been with him at matches and also out a few times. He is a quiet and humble man. A lovely fella and real gentleman.

Centre forward

Paolo Di Canio

Paolo Di Canio - He had this aura about him that made you take notice. I loved the way he went about his job. He was unpredictable and could pull it out of the bag at any moment - something I will need to show as well. He was full of passion and I loved the way he played.

Centre forward

Tony Cottee

Tony Cottee - Not the biggest like me but what a clinical finisher. He was another homegrown talent that I grew up hearing lots about and he always did the job. He could deliver a knockout blow and if there was a chance in the penalty area you would want it to fall to him.

Manager

Kevin Mitchell

Kevin Mitchell - I'd love to manage this side and my team talk would be simple with all that quality. I would tell them to play with their hearts, give their all and leave everything out on the pitch. That will be my thoughts when I am getting ready to knock out Katsidis. You have got to put in 100 per cent if you want the fans with you. I know they will be right behind me and I can't wait….