Parker on Olympic high

Scott Parker has summed up the feelgood factor at West Ham United after the club were recommended as preferred bidder for the Olympic Stadium.

The hard work may have only just begun for the club's joint plans with Newham Council to take guardianship of the Olympic Stadium following the 2012 Games, but having been to the Stratford site, Parker acknowledged there is plenty of optimism among the playing squad.

Parker said the decision had boosted everyone but also acknowledged there is a more immediate task at hand - Premier League survival. Having battled back for a precious point at West Bromwich Albion last weekend, the Hammers are now focusing on keeping the FA Cup run going against Burnley on Monday before Liverpool arrive on Sunday week.

"It would be great to play at the stadium," said Parker. "Of course, you want to be playing at the best grounds and having been around the Olympic Stadium myself, it is going to be something special I am sure.

"First and foremost it is a great decision for the club - there has been a lot of work behind the scenes to get this and so that has been rewarded. It can only be a good thing for the club as it looks to build on for the future.

"It is a chance for the club to move on, keep improving. For now, though, obviously we are in the middle of a season and the main focus is on keeping the club in the Premier League."

As the reigning Hammer of the Year and having won the SBOBET player of the month prize for a second straight month, Parker is a big favourite with the supporters. He is delighted that more of them will be able to come and see the team at their new home, should all go to plan for the 2014/15 season.

"It looks like more fans will be able to come to matches at affordable prices and that is great for them. The support is fantastic at West Ham and I am sure the club will be making sure the new stadium will reflect that support. The decision last week means a new stadium for the future and that is something that will no doubt take the club forward."