Carr on Allardyce arrival

Academy Director Tony Carr has welcomed new West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce to the club.

The experienced Carr has overseen the development of a large number of the first-team squad, many of whom could play a big part under Allardyce over the coming season.

With the likes of Mark Noble, Jack Collison, James Tomkins, Freddie Sears, Junior Stanislas and Jordan Spence all expected to be involved in West Ham's challenge for promotion from the Npower Championship in 2011/12, the long-serving Academy chief has praised Allardyce's appointment and wished the manager all the best in his new role.

"The most important thing is that this restores the pride back into West Ham United Football Club. If we can have a successful season next year with a team built around the homegrown youngsters and some experienced players, then that can only be good for the club.

"I wish Sam success and I look forward to meeting and working with him."