Latest News

Eggert Magnusson has been speaking of his plans for the future of West Ham United on the day it was revealed he would be succeeding Terry Brown as Chairman.

Magnusson's Icelandic consortium - backed by billionaire financier Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson - agreed a £100m deal to purchase the Club over the weekend - although that, according to the 59-year-old, was just the first phase of his plans to eventually establish West Ham United as a force in European football.

"This club has so much to be proud of and I want everyone who loves and supports the club to bring their pride and passion to help build this next stage of West Ham's future," he said.

"The main financial supporter of our bid, Mr Gudmundsson, has given me full backing and responsibility to take the club forward. He and I have known each other through football for many years and we share a passion for the game, particularly here in England.

"Mr Gudmundsson's commitment to the club is vital and he also believes that we can build something very special here at West Ham.

"There is a genuine excitement in the club about what we can achieve together, which I hope the fans will share."

And in a bid to calm any fears that West Ham may ditch their policy of nurturing young British talent, Magnusson added:

"As we move forward we must not forget the club's great traditions, particularly in the training and development of young English players.

"All the way back to 1966 and the World Cup winning team of Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters, this is something that I have admired about West Ham United.

"I am very committed to protecting and growing this part of the club's work."

* You can see Magnusson's interview with WHUTV - courtesy of the BBC - here.

* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.