West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan believes the Club could not have been handed a tougher start to the Premier League campaign but feels they are good enough to cause a big surprise on the opening day of the new season.
Slaven Bilic will take his new side to north London for a testing first game against the FA Cup holders Arsenal at Emirates Stadium on August 8.
West Ham will then play two home games at the Boleyn Ground against Leicester on August 15 and newly promoted Bournemouth on August 22.
Mr Sullivan hopes the Club will be able to get some points on the board early on in the season and can also enjoy a lengthy run in the Europa League.
Sullivan said: “It couldn't be a tougher start for us than Arsenal away. Since we have been back in the Premier League we have have never got a point from Arsenal.
“But often it is a good time to play the top sides early on in the season.
“We have some really tough away games early on and some must win home games. So its an exciting and challenging start and hopefully we are still in Europe at that time.
“The final ever game at the Boleyn Ground against Swansea on May 7 will be emotional for everyone at the club. As a fan I know how hard it is going to be.
“I think it will be very special throughout the season as we honour the Academy and have some of the old legends coming back as part of our line-up.
“It will be emotional and sad but we have such exciting times ahead with the move to the new Stadium.
“I think this is the most exciting time for West Ham and I would urge the fans to get on the waiting list for the new stadium if they are not a current Season Ticket Holder.
“They will see the final season at the Boleyn Ground and it will be very difficult to get tickets for a game. The Season Ticket numbers are the highest we have seen for decades and the new Stadium could be the same.”