There has been a lot of talk about the performances and physical impact of the new signings this season – and rightly so.
Most of the summer recruits have settled quickly and appear to be astute buys.
But it is clear the introduction of fresh faces, and the increased competition for places that creates, is bringing the best out of everyone.
Against West Bromwich Albion this week, eight players who featured on the pitch for West Ham also played in the fixture last season.
Back in April, the Baggies won 1-0 to leave the Hammers still at risk of relegation.
Those same players were heckled by supporters, and dejected in themselves.
This time, two players who have not enjoyed huge plaudits so far stepped up and proved to be the difference.
Kevin Nolan divides opinion, but has always stayed willing. He has been forced to wait for his chance again after coming back from injury, and popped up with a classic goal to remind everyone of his remaining worth to the team.
Others such as match winner James Tomkins and Stewart Downing are enjoying much better seasons on the back of the football style facilitated by the new signings.
And it’s good to see a fresh approach by the fans.
During the corresponding fixture just eight months ago, a banner was unfurled exclaiming “Fat Sam Out – Killing WHU”.
Fast forward to a cold December evening, and the boos were replaced with chants of “We’re gona win the league”. Fans could not be happier with the club’s position, performances, and results.
The board must be beaming about not making wholesale changes to bring about such a vast improvement in fortunes.
