Former Hammers stopper David James is delighted to be playing a part in Mark Noble's Testimonial
Ex-West Ham United goalkeeper David James says he is looking forward to turning out in front of a sell-out crowd at the Boleyn Ground on Monday for Mark Noble’s Testimonial.
The former stopper has been preparing at the Club’s training ground this week and will be part of the All Stars side, which contains a host of Hammers legends, up against the current squad.
And James – who played for the Club just before Noble made his first team debut against Southend United in 2004 – cannot wait for the occasion.
He said: “It’s nice to be back here and throw myself about with the keepers. It’s going to be a special day and I’m delighted that Nobes has allowed me to play.
“He’s a top geezer to start with. Player-wise, he’s had the season of his life and likewise have West Ham. I think he’s been an intrinsic part of the success they’ve been having this season.
“I think going back to when I was here, he was a youngster and he’s a terrific bloke. I was so delighted when he said I could play in this game because the West Ham fans have already bought all the tickets.
“They see Mark as a local hero so I’m delighted for him.”
The former stopper has been preparing at the Club’s training ground this week and will be part of the All Stars side, which contains a host of Hammers legends, up against the current squad.
And James – who played for the Club just before Noble made his first team debut against Southend United in 2004 – cannot wait for the occasion.
He said: “It’s nice to be back here and throw myself about with the keepers. It’s going to be a special day and I’m delighted that Nobes has allowed me to play.
“He’s a top geezer to start with. Player-wise, he’s had the season of his life and likewise have West Ham. I think he’s been an intrinsic part of the success they’ve been having this season.
“I think going back to when I was here, he was a youngster and he’s a terrific bloke. I was so delighted when he said I could play in this game because the West Ham fans have already bought all the tickets.
“They see Mark as a local hero so I’m delighted for him.”