From the Boardroom - David Gold

Joint-Chairman David Gold is delighted to see Manuel Lanzini agree a new contract and looks ahead to the Mark Noble Testimonial

I am delighted that Manuel Lanzini has become the latest big name in our squad to agree a new contract with the Club.


It demonstrates our commitment to securing the best players and it is fantastic news.


He is not just a player who excites us but he has a great character which is so important in the dressing room.


I am so pleased for him that the deal has now been finalised and he is the perfect fit for our football Club.


The goal he scored against Chelsea last weekend shows what a quality player he is and he can produce that kind of skill on a regular basis.


We are showing that we want our best players to stay with the Club and it is so important that the likes of Lanzini and Payet remain with us for a long time.


It is a statement that the board are making and we realise that we have this wonderful opportunity.


We also have many talented young players like Antonio, Cresswell and Byram who want to be here with us and be part of our new adventure when we move into the new Stadium.


It is fantastic news that we have announced that the new Stadium will be increasing to 60,000 and it once again shows the fantastic support that we have at West Ham United.


We have it all to play for in the final part of the season and the key will be the injuries.


We look as if we are coming out of that now and we could have a virtually fully fit squad if James Tomkins and James Collins are able to make a return after the international break.


I am also thrilled to see the likes of Andy Carroll coming on and making such an impact like he did against Chelsea.


There is real competition for places and we will be raring to go for the final part of the campaign when we face so many key games in both the Premier League and FA Cup.


We now switch our attentions to Mark Noble's Testimonial on Monday and it is going to be special day for Mark and all the fans.


You don't get the tag 'Mr West Ham' for nothing and I would say he is following in the footsteps of some of the biggest names to have played for this great club like Billy Bonds, Sir Trevor Brooking, Alan Devonshire who showed such amazing loyalty and were loved by the fans.


I am really looking forward to the game and seeing some of the old legends come back to play.


It is a fitting way for Mark to have this game in the final ever season at the Boleyn Ground.


I know the fans will be excited at the prospect of seeing Paolo Di Canio back in a claret and blue shirt and he was a genius during his time at the Club. I expect him to have some fun with the referee !!


But on a serious note it will be great to see him back on the Boleyn Ground pitch. I hope everyone has a memorable day and I am sure it will be a day that Mark will never forget.