Areola back on the case

Alphonse Areola had very little to do against Luton in yesterday’s friendly and could do nothing at all about the goal that settled the game.

But he was glad to be on the pitch for 90 minutes for the first time this pre-season following his decision to sign permanently for the Irons.

It would appear from these early games as though Lukasz Fabianski may remain No 1 this season – as the manager considers things but much will obviously depend on events during the season.

Areola was one of the Hammers’ contingent of international players who returned later to pre-season, but he feels as though he is regaining his sharpness and is looking forward to contributing to an exciting campaign ahead both at home and in Europe.

He was always the clear choice as “second” keeper in the manager’s mind and at 29 years of age looks likely to have a long Hammers career in front of him.

After yesterday’s game against Luton he told www.whufc.com “It felt good to get 90 minutes. We’ve worked hard so it felt good to be on the pitch today and we’re getting ready physically and mentally for the new season.

“We had a couple of chances to kill the game and win it, and then we’ve conceded from a corner in the last minute which we can avoid.

“But it’s part of the game, part of the work, and we have to do better in the next game.

“It feels like a step forward towards the new season. We try to do our best, we’re two weeks from the new season starting and we’re getting ready for it.”

“I’m feeling good. It’s good to be back,” he continued. “I’m happy to be here, happy to be enjoying my football and let’s push to keep on progressing this season.

“Let’s recover now and then think about the work we have to do in the week ahead before we play Lens next weekend.

“It was good to see our fans today as well. They were really close behind the goal and it was great to feel the support.”