West Ham United supporters grasped the opportunity to meet summer signings Sebastien Haller and Roberto for the first time at the West Ham United store at Lakeside Thurrock for a signing event.
Club record signing Haller and goalkeeper Roberto took the time chat, sign autographs and pose for photos with the West Ham supporters in attendance, with 350 fans queuing to meet the two new Hammers.
Wednesday’s meeting was the first chance for fans to meet the two summer signings, with some supporters even starting to wait for the opportunity before the Lakeside store even opened, and striker Haller was delighted to have the opportunity to chat with supporters.
I’ve really felt that special connection with the fans. It’s nice to respond to that and be close to them.
Sebastien Haller
The forward – who signed from UEFA Europa League semi-finalists Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer – said he has been blown away by the welcome he has been given to West Ham and London by supporters since joining the Irons.
“I think it’s nice to come out and meet all the West Ham United fans who are going to support me and the team during the whole season,” the Frenchman told whufc.com. “It’s nice to be here, to sign things, to be close to them.
“I’ve really felt that special connection with the fans. It’s nice to respond to that and be close to them. They want to be close to us as players and we want to be close to them and feel that family feeling. It’s great to be here.”
Spaniard Roberto was also thrilled at the chance to spend time with the West Ham United supporters and believes the fans hold a special relationship with the Irons players.
The shot-stopper said: “It means so much to as players that fans take time out of their day and come to see us.
“It all means a lot; the support they give to us, we feel it in the stadium when we’re on the field, but it’s always good to share these moments with them. It’s why we look forward to doing these kinds of things.
“I’ve only been here a short time but it’s very easy to feel the connection that all the West Ham fans have with us players. It’s one, big West Ham family and we’re all here for each other.”
Wednesday’s signing at Lakeside was the first of a summer holiday special double-header! Pablo Fornals and David Martin will be meeting West Ham United fans at the Romford Store on Wednesday 21 August from 2:30pm!