Former Hammers winger Trevor Sinclair believes Dimitri Payet could follow in the footsteps of Paolo Di Canio if he continues to show his best form for both club and country.
Payet became a cult hero with the West Ham fans last season with his impressive displays and stunning free-kicks.
The 29-year-old stole the headlines at the end of season Player Awards when he came away with five trophies including the prestigious Hammer of the Year.
Payet has carried his West Ham form into the Euro Finals this summer and dominated all the headlines in the opening game of the tournament when he scored a wonder goal to help France record a dramatic late victory.
Sinclair knows all about Hammers legends having played alongside Di Canio and feels Payet can earn the same reputation at West Ham United.
Sinclair said: “He is a very good player and deserves all the recognition.
“I was a bit concerned when he got injured last season and the lads could really miss him, but they stuck together while he was away.
“When he came back he got rewarded with his new contract which was the right thing.
“I thought have they given him a new deal too soon, but he went on to another level.
“I am really pleased with how he has handled himself and he has applied himself superbly well on the pitch.
“I hope he can back it up next year because the second season is always more difficult.
“If he can back it up it is time to start talking about him in the same breath as Paolo Di Canio and players of that ilk.”