Boss Pelle so happy with business

Manuel Pellegrini is thrilled to have captured his No 1 priority player Felipe Anderson.

He doesn’t quite put it that way but it’s well known that the former (how good that sounds) Lazio star has arrived and could easily become the player around whom he builds his side.

Talking of the 25-year-old Brazil midfielder – the Hammers’ seventh summer capture – the boss said: “Felipe has a very natural and skilful ability, in the traditional style of Brazilian football, but has proven at Lazio that he also has the strength and mentality to play at the top level in European football.

And the boss delivered high praise on the  Hammers hierarchy for supporting the big investment in squad reinforcement.

He said: “We are very happy with the players we have signed since I arrived and it gives us a big confidence ahead of the new season.

“The club have made a very big investment this summer and I must thank the owners for their support and backing.”