Peter Grant says that this week's training break in
Dubai has been a worthy exercise ahead of what could be a momentous
finish to the season for West Ham United.
The Hammers squad and coaching staff flew out to the Arabian Gulf on Monday for some warm-weather preparation before Sunday's Premiership clash against London rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and, with our FA Cup semi-final now just two weeks away, our assistant manager insists the trip abroad has played an important part in revitalising the players.
"It's been great," says Peter. "One thing you are looking for at this stage of the season is a spark - something to lift the players and push them on for the final period.
"We've had a lot of games in a short space of time recently, plus a lot of travelling that has taken its toll, and at times we looked a little leggy against Charlton on Sunday.
"So it's good for the players to get away, have a bit of sun on their backs and spend some time together. They have worked hard this season, no-one can dispute that, and this is a nice gesture by the Club.
"Everything has been fantastic - the people at the hotel have commented on how respectful the players have been, the kids here have had a great time playing football, volleyball and head-tennis with them, and it has been a terrific few days.
"The players know they are ambassadors for West Ham United, and they have been a credit to the Club. After a couple of days relaxing, they are now preparing seriously for the game at Chelsea on Sunday, and I'm sure they will all come back with a spring in their step."
The Hammers squad and coaching staff flew out to the Arabian Gulf on Monday for some warm-weather preparation before Sunday's Premiership clash against London rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and, with our FA Cup semi-final now just two weeks away, our assistant manager insists the trip abroad has played an important part in revitalising the players.
"It's been great," says Peter. "One thing you are looking for at this stage of the season is a spark - something to lift the players and push them on for the final period.
"We've had a lot of games in a short space of time recently, plus a lot of travelling that has taken its toll, and at times we looked a little leggy against Charlton on Sunday.
"So it's good for the players to get away, have a bit of sun on their backs and spend some time together. They have worked hard this season, no-one can dispute that, and this is a nice gesture by the Club.
"Everything has been fantastic - the people at the hotel have commented on how respectful the players have been, the kids here have had a great time playing football, volleyball and head-tennis with them, and it has been a terrific few days.
"The players know they are ambassadors for West Ham United, and they have been a credit to the Club. After a couple of days relaxing, they are now preparing seriously for the game at Chelsea on Sunday, and I'm sure they will all come back with a spring in their step."