Source: Team_Talk
Grant gets Home Office green light
West Ham have confirmed that Avram Grant has had his work permit application approved to allow him to become the club's manager.[LNB] The Israeli agreed a four-year contract last week to succeed Gianfranco Zola at Upton Park and was awaiting only approval from the Home Office.[LNB]That has now been secured and he can begin his new role on an official basis.[LNB]Grant had already made former Aston Villa and Stuttgart midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger his first signing last Saturday.[LNB]Co-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold previously hailed the 55-year-old's appointment as the "beginning of a new era".[LNB]The Hammers only narrowly avoided relegation last season, an outcome which ultimately cost Zola his job.[LNB]Speaking at the time of Grant signing his contract, Gold told the club's official website: "I have to say that having met Avram and spent some time with him, we have got our man. He is a perfect fit.[LNB]"We needed experience and stability. He's a footballing man and quite frankly his reputation speaks for itself."[LNB]Sullivan added: "I'm delighted to welcome Avram to West Ham and am confident he will prove a success.[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."
