West Ham United legend Joe Cole believes his former Club are on the brink of competing with the top teams in England and feels the next five-years are going to be something special.
Cole, who made 187 appearances during his memorable time at the Boleyn Ground, has been impressed with the Club's business in the transfer window during the summer and feels the squad will only grow stronger as they prepare to move into the new Stadium next year.
Cole, who is now playing for Aston Villa, could already see the hard work going on behind the scenes during his second spell back at the Club and feels the new players including Dimitri Payet have given them even more quality in the forward line this season and they can be a match for any team.
Cole said: “I think it is going to be a great year for West Ham. All credit to the owners and the people upstairs and they keep backing the managers.
“When I was here last year I said it was an exiting time for the Club and West Ham are on the brink of being right up there with the top teams in the country. When I say brink, I mean the next five-years – especially when they move into the new Stadium.
“I know a few of the new signings they have brought in like Dimitri Payet and he is an excellent player. The fans are going to love watching him play.”
Cole knows everything about Payet having played alongside him for Lille and has no doubts that he will maintain his superb run of form and become a major star for the Hammers.
Cole added: “He is an exceptional player and technically very gifted. I'm not surprised how well he has settled in.
“He is coming to the Club at a good age at 28 and West Ham have got his peak years. He is a French international and the fans will be really excited about watching him.
“I know the football has flowed this year and there have been plenty of goals and he will definitely get on the scoresheet and give the final pass as well.”