Paolo Di Canio was back at West Ham United over the weekend and had plenty to say.
The West Ham legend bleeds claret and blue.
And the Italian maverick has delivered an emphatic verdict on the job being done by Manuel Pellegrini.
In an interview with the club’s official website, Di Canio said he believes West Ham have the best squad outside the top six and should be aiming for a Europa League spot this season.
Paolo backs Pellegrini for Europe
“With more consistency during the season, we can have a fantastic season because, after the top six, I think West Ham is the team with the best quality and talent,” Di Canio told whufc.com.
“And when you have Pellegrini in his second year, he knows exactly the environment here and he is happy with the squad because he has said that he has got two players for each position.
‘Fantastic for all of us’
“So, we have all the things to do well. And I hope we can go back into Europe next year and qualify for the Europa League.
“That would be fantastic for all of us and for the fans.”
Di Canio is not the only one who believes West Ham will have a strong season.
Can Hammers live up to the hype?
West Ham have been backed to challenge for Europe by a host of pundits and former players.
Hammers legends Tony Cottee and Tony Gale have both tipped their old club to challenge for one of the top six spots (Sky Sports).
So too has talkSPORT presenter Adrian Durham and former Hammer Don Hutchison (5 Live Sport).
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