Snodgrass: McAvennie sold me on Hammers
SCOTLAND star Robert Snodgrass has revealed former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie sold him on a move to West Ham.
The 29-year-old opted for the London club in a £10.2m switch on Friday, even though Burnley also had a bid accepted by Hull City.
McAvennie became a fans favourite at the Hammers across two spells and Snodgrass, who has signed a three-and-a-half year deal for Slaven Billic’s side, insists he was left in no doubt that West Ham was the right club after speaking to his fellow countryman.
Snodgrass, who scored nine goals for Hull this season, said: “I’m delighted because this is a massive club with great tradition.
“The traditions of the club also attracted me and I spoke to Frank McAvennie, who sold the club really well, which was great.
“Ray Stewart and Christian Dailly were also here, so if I can do as well as Frank and the rest that would be great.
“This is my own chapter and it’s about me and not them and I firmly believe in my ability and that I can go and get a relationship with these fans and my new teammates and really drive the team up the league.
“This is the sort of club which speaks for itself, the fans who come here and support week-in week-out and moving to and selling out this new stadium is terrific and I want to be part of it.
“The owners and the manager are trying to build something here and I just can’t wait to get started.
“I feel this is a lub with real ambition, with the new stadium, great players and a manager of his calibre at Premier League level.
“The lads will say we want to be up in the top half of last table and repeat last year, so it’s up to us.
“The club has had a few good weeks with results and if I can add to that, great.
“I can’t wait to get started with my new team-mates.”