WITH the scenes of jubilation at the Millennium Stadium and the
triumphant victory parade through the streets of Newham still fresh
in his memory, defender Anton Ferdinand admits he's still on a
high after West Ham's Play-off Final success.
The 20-year-old's form was key to Hammers run to promotion,
turning in some exemplary displays over the run-in, including a
performance punctuated by maturity and assurance under the
Millennium Stadium spotlight.
Now the England Under-21 defender is focusing his sights firmly on
the big-time.
"I'm still buzzing," smiled Anton, "and I think
I will be all summer. It's a fantastic feeling, but to be
honest, I still don't think it's sunk in yet.
"It probably won't until we're back for pre-season and
preparing to play in the Premiership. Right now, it's just been
loads of celebrations.
"The parade was fantastic, as was the atmosphere after the
game in Cardiff. You looked up and it was just claret and blue
everywhere.
"The fans at West Ham are incredible. They've shown this
week just how much it means to them, and for me to have helped
bring them that success is amazing."
For a professional footballer, most important occasions go past in
a blur of nerves and concentration. But Anton is still reliving
every kick of that memorable 1-0 triumph over Preston.
"Every player played well," he said. "We were so
determined going into the game and that showed in the way we
played.
"Our confidence was high before the match. We had the belief
that we could do it, but we still had to go out there against a
tough Preston side and prove it.
"We knew that we had to be strong, but the only thing on our
minds was winning.
"I was delighted for Bobby Z as well. He's grown in
confidence over these final games and his goals got us through the
Play-offs.
"He's come back from some difficult times this season and
shown what a player he is."
The team as a whole have also had to bear the strain of fervent
criticism this season, and what better place to hit back than the
Millennium Stadium, by lifting that coveted Play-off Final trophy.
"We've had a lot of criticism this season," agreed
Anton. "The gaffer has taken a lot of it for us, but we've
got on with the job and we've shown people that this team has
the quality to take West Ham United back to the Premiership.
"West Ham is a Premier League club and now we're back I
just hope that I can play my part in even more success for the
Club."
Congratulations after Cardiff flooded in from all quarters.
Cheslea's Premier League winning captain John Terry was just
one player to send his best wishes. But Anton treasured his own
well-done message from brother Rio, and is looking forward to
taking on the Manchester United and England star next season.
Anton added: "I received a text message from him, saying
congratulations.
"He's really pleased for us. Hopefully we'll
play against each other next season, and that's certainly going
to be something for the family to enjoy!"