ALAN Pardew praised the tremendous application of his players this
season and the incredible backing of the Hammers faithful over the
season's run-in for West Ham United's triumphant return to
the Premiership.
After watching his players put last season's Play-off Final
disappointment behind them to outclass Preston in the Millennium
Stadium, the Hammers boss could not hide his pride at guiding West
Ham back to their place among England's elite.
"This is a fantastic moment for West Ham United," he
exclaimed, "and the Club deserve to celebrate it. I'm
really proud of the players. They went to the Millennium Stadium
focused on getting us back to the Premiership and it was all about
doing a job.
"It was a tremendous day for everyone connected with the
Club. The players have done terrific, but it's not just about
them. This means everything to West Ham United, and I'm
delighted for everyone connected with the Club.
"It's been a tough season for everyone, especially the
staff and fans. I'm delighted to have achieved this success for
them. It's what everyone has been working and dreaming for over
the past two seasons and now it's come good."
Bobby Zamora's 57th minute goal was the difference between the
two sides, but Pards was also quick to recognise the efforts of
Preston and their manager Billy Davis.
"It's a really tough day for Preston but they've had a
fantastic season," he said. "Billy Davis has done a great
job getting them here and they put up a tough fight today.
"But right from the kick-off we looked very sharp and
confident. Last season's defeat was definitely spurring us on
and the experience of last season was a factor.
"We didn't dwell on it though and set our stall out from
the off. Bobby took his goal very well and nobody deserves it more
than him.
"It's been a tough season for him with plenty of ups and
downs, but he's stayed strong and over these last couple of
months he has been brilliant for us. As a local lad it means so
much to him as well and I'm delighted for Bobby.
"But all the players have done brilliantly. The two young
players at centre-half handled the occasion fantastically and in
midfield Nigel Reo-Coker gave a captain's performance."
The Play-off Final victory marks a triumphant end to a tumultuous
season for Alan Pardew, which has seen him come under fire from
doubters and handle the constant pressure of managing the
expectation at West Ham United.
But Pards simply explained that it's all part of the job, as
he now sets his sights on preparing his Hammers heores for their
Premiership return.
"We've all learned a lot and come along way," said
the delighted manager. "It's been a tough season at
times. We've come under pressure and some people have doubted
that we could go all the way.
"We've had to deal with a lot this season in terms of
injuries to key players, but we've stayed strong and come
through to give the fans what they deserve.
"Every manager has to deal with pressure and I've just
tried to focus on the job of getting West Ham United back to the
Premiership. It's been tough, but we've done it and this is
a memorable achievement in the Club's history."
Looking ahead to Hammers return to the big-time, Pards believes his
squad will handle their step-up to the Premiership.
"This group of players will work hard and give it their all in
the Premier League," he enthused. "We'll make one or
two additions and these players know that.
"But they are all determined to prove themselves at the
highest level and they've earned that chance now.
"The Club has dealt with a great deal on and off the pitch
over the last couple of years, and now West Ham United can put all
that behind us and celebrate being back in the
Premiership."