The Big Interview - Dimitri Payet

Dimitri Payet looks ahead to the big London derby against Spurs and reflects on a memorable first season at the Hammers

'We've got Payet, Dimitri Payet – I just don't think you understand'....


What more can be said about the French superstar following his memorable first season at the Boleyn Ground.


The Hammers forward has already become a cult hero with his superb displays this season and he recently showed his commitment to the Club by signing a new five-year contract.


Payet is now hoping to make it a memorable end to the season and with crucial league games against Tottenham and Everton in the next few days and then a huge FA Cup Quarter Final clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford to follow, the 28-year-old knows there is everything to play for.

 


Dimitri, what have you made of Tottenham this season and how much are you looking forward to the big London derby?


DP: “They have become title challengers this season and Leicester have taken all the attention by being top of the league, but Tottenham have also played well and we saw them beat Manchester City the other week.


“They are only two points behind Leicester so I think they have a squad good enough to win the league this season.”

 

How pleased are you with the way the Hammers have been performing this season?


DP: “We are doing very well so we are happy. The aim was to do better than last season and finish in the top half and we are currently in a battle with two other teams to finish around fifth place.


“We are doing very well and we need to make sure that we finish off the job.”

 

Many people have said you are the signing of the season. Do you agree with that?


DP: “It is very nice to hear that people have said that about me. I am happy with how I have performed this season and how the team are doing so far.


“But I would say there are other players such as Kante who arrived from Ligue 1 and has had an incredible season in Leicester's rise to the top of the table. A lot of that is down to him.”

 

Considering the superb form you have showed this season, do you feel the pressure to perform every time you play?


DP: “I would say it is the opposite. I have enjoyed the responsibility and feel that it motivates me.


“It helps me to perform consistently. When I was injured the team did suffer but many other attacking players were missing as well.


“Now we have got everyone fit again we are back on track.”

 

What is it like playing under Slaven Bilic and his style of management?


DP: “Slaven is very close to his players and speaks with us all the time. Slaven and his staff are very good at preparing us for the opposition in terms of breaking down their strengths and weaknesses.”

 

How big a factor was Slaven in you choosing West Ham in the first place and recently signing a new long-term deal with the Club?


DP: “Yes of course, Slaven was a big factor in me signing for the Club last season and signing my new contract recently. I thank him for that.”

 

How big a part is the new Stadium as well when it comes to you pledging your future. Do you feel that West Ham could follow in the footsteps of Leicester and challenge for the title?


DP: “The new Stadium was also a big factor in me choosing to sign for West Ham last summer.


“It shows that the Club wants to take big steps forward and continue to grow. It is our ambition to do what Leicester have done and push for a genuine title challenge.”

 

Finally, what have you made of the song that the West Ham fans have chosen for you. They say you are better than Zidane. What do you make of that?


DP: “Of course I love the song and the supporters sing it all the time when we play home and away.


“In terms of the comparison with the Zidane that is the fans opinion, but I feel he is still above me!”