Payet found right club and manager at right time

The Mirror’s John Cross joins us today as a special guest blogger and casts his eye over tomorrow’s huge Boleyn clash against the Arsenal. ‘Crossie ‘ is an old pal and has been close to the north London club since he was working on the area’s local newspaper. He has since become one of the most respected tabloid writers in the country and it’s a real pleasure to see him on ClaretandHugh as our guest for one of the biggest games of the season. He knows Arsenal well and is the author of the recent autobiography on the Gunners boss.

By John Cross

It is perfectly right that West Ham should no consider themselves one of the big boys – they have come so far this season and of course Dimi Payet can never be far from the conversation when we talk about the Hammers.

Some my have believed that when Arsene Wenger said earlier in the week that “Arsenal didn’t need him” when they showed an initial interest last summer he was gilding the lily a bit and getting into a few mind games.

But I don’t think he was because until this season under the brilliant Slaven Bilic, Payet had never shown the level of ability or indeed focus he has done at Upton Park. And that probably, along with his age of course, created a few doubts.

But he has been made the main man at the Boleyn and the boss has put him at the centre of everything which has given hm everything he needs to kick on and become the star many believed he could always be.

I’ve been frtunate to have a couple of sit down interviews with Slaven and the man really is something else. He has presence, ability, and real talent. Any player would play out of their skin for the man – great person.

Had Payet  gone to a United, City, Arsenal or Chelsea it may not have happened for him because he could easily have Ibeen in and out of the team. instead he has found the right club at the right time under precisely the right manager.

And to be honest – given the mediocre form Arsenal have been showing – I can see him and this excellent West Ham team hurting Arsenal tomorrow – it could be a draw but I think a West Ham win is more likely on current form.

They play so well against the top teams and with the top four still a possibility they will be going for it in a big way. It’s a must not lose for Arsenal and that in itself will create a lot of pressure.

West Ham really has become a club on it’s way and how refreshing it was to hear David Sullivan say they had invested in Payet for NOW not for the future. Clubs may come in for him this summer but I don’t see him leaving/

He has become the top man, you are moving onto the fabulous Olympic Stadium and can become a regular top six clubs.

Things are looking great for the Hammers and they could look even better after the game at lunchtime.