Source: Team_Talk
Hammers confirm Grant appointment
West Ham have confirmed the appointment of former Portsmouth boss Avram Grant as the club's new manager on a four-year deal. [LNB] The Israeli led Portsmouth to last month's FA Cup final before leaving Fratton Park two weeks ago and also steered Chelsea into the 2008 Champions League final.[LNB]"I'm proud and honoured to be the manager of West Ham. It's an exciting [LNB]challenge and I'm ready to do my best," he told the club's official website.[LNB]Grant, whose new appointment is subject to a successful work permit application, was sacked by Chelsea shortly after the European final defeat by Manchester United two years ago.[LNB]The 55-year-old Israeli returned to the Premier League with Portsmouth last October, first as director of football and then as manager following the removal of Paul Hart.[LNB]His success in leading Portsmouth, who were subsequently placed into administration, to the FA Cup final amid horrendous financial constraints won universal approval.[LNB]"West Ham is a fantastic club with great fans and a history that is respected around the world," continued Grant.[LNB]"I'm already looking forward to getting to work with my players in July and preparing for the new season."[LNB]Co-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold jointly acclaimed Grant's arrival as the "beginning of a new era at West Ham United".[LNB]His predecessor Gianfranco Zola steered West Ham to safety last season with 35 points, enough to keep them one place above the relegation zone, but was sacked soon after.[LNB]The Hammers were saved more by the shortcomings of the teams below them than their own efforts, forcing Gold and Sullivan to act.[LNB]"I have to say that having met Avram and spent some time with him that we have got our man. He is a perfect fit," said Gold.[LNB]"We needed experience and stability. He's a footballing man and quite frankly his reputation speaks for itself.[LNB]"He has a great sense of humour and I'm sure the players will relate to him and the fans will warm to him."[LNB]Croatia coach Slaven Bilic, Blackpool boss Ian Holloway, Cardiff manager Dave Jones and Sam Allardyce of Blackburn had also been linked with the job.[LNB]"I'm delighted to welcome Avram to West Ham and am confident he will prove a success," said Sullivan.[LNB]"We have taken our time over this appointment and are certain we have got the right man.[LNB]"We are all looking forward to next season with new players coming in and Avram's arrival is just the latest reason for real optimism."
