James Tomkins has seen many changes at West Ham United over the years but he is bracing himself for the biggest chapter in the Club's history when we move into the new Stadium next summer.
Having come through the Club's famous academy and becoming an established member of the first-team squad, the Hammers defender will be full of emotions as we prepare to move away from the Boleyn Ground.
But the 26-year-old cannot wait to showcase his talents in a bigger arena and is excited by the prospect of playing in front of 50,000 fans every week.
How excited are you by the prospect of playing in the new Stadium and the developments which have occurred in recent months?
JT: “The Stadium looks really good and we have been looking at all the changes that have taken place.
“The atmosphere looked unbelievable during the Rugby World Cup and it looks unbelievable when you come here. Everyone is looking forward to playing here.”
A lot of supporters came to view the Stadium during the tournament and everyone seems to be really impressed. Is that the feedback you have received from people you have spoken to?
JT: “I know the fans have been impressed with how close the view is to the pitch. That was a big factor and it looks fantastic.
“You can imagine what it is going to be like when it is full of West Ham fans and everyone is looking forward to it.”
There have been so many changes taking place with the roof, floodlights and the turnstiles being put in. It feels very real and the move is getting ever closer.
JT: “The move feels like it is just around the corner and we are not far away from doing it now.
“We need to continue having a good start to the season and it is a great stepping stone to see how far we have progressed.
“We finished 12th last season and we want to improve on that season. This is the perfect timing to see what direction we want to head in.”
Slaven has said that he wants to take each game as it comes but as players how much do you think about the big move next summer?
JT: “I think everyone is buzzing about the move and I am sure the stadium is going to be full because we have a massive base of West Ham fans.
“For me this is pretty much like home and every time I come to the stadium you can see even more changes taking place.”
You only have to look at what the new East Stand will be like with the crossed Hammers in the seats. There is still work to be done but the fans have a lot to be excited about?
JT: “It is not even finished yet and there are still a lot of changes to be made with the claret and blue in the stands. It will be surreal and it is hard to keep your eyes off it.
“You wonder what the pitch is going to be like but when you take a look now it looks impressive and everyone is looking forward to it more than they were before.”