Earlier today the former Portsmouth boss, Avram Grant was officially appointed as the new West Ham manager on a four year contract. Grant was the clear favourite to succeed Zola after the Italian’s departure last month. Difficult to know how to react to this as the distasteful sacking of Zola for breach of contract still rankles. Even mild mannered Sir Trevor pleaded for greater clarity from the co-chairmen. We have certainly had a clearer narrative from Gold and Sullivan of late as they stressed the importance of recruiting a manager who had ‘been there, done it and got the T-shirt.’

Grant was quoted on the club website today saying, “I am proud and honoured to be the manager of West Ham. It is an exciting challenge and I am ready to do my best.” He additionally said the usual waffle about passionate fans and a rich history. Questions have been asked on other blogs and fan sites as to whether Grant has the charisma and personality to connect with the West Ham faithful. David Gold thinks so and I for once agree with him. He was perceived as a rather dour individual whilst at Chelsea but he became more animated during his short reign at Pompey, rallying the players and the fans in the face of financial meltdown.

It will be interesting to have a boss who has managed at both ends of the Premier League and perhaps that wealth of experience which Gold alluded to will win him the confidence of the players. With the sad departure of Franco and Ilan together with poor displays at the back last season, defence and attack will be the key areas for improvement. I just hope therefore that Grant’s first move in the transfer market is not to go after the likes of O’Hara and Boateng.