WEST Ham manager Avram Grant has issued a plea to Hammers supporters asking them to recreate the positive environment that helped the Israeli build up such a good relationship at his former club, writes Craig Rodhouse.

The 55-year-old left Pompey at the end of last season, after a Premier League campaign plagued by off-the-field issues, culminating in the south coast side losing their place in the top flight of English football.

However, Grant did lead Portsmouth to their second FA Cup final in two years and clearly feels that, despite all the problems the club accumulated last term, the Irons can take a leaf out of the Pompey fans' books.

"What happened in Portsmouth needs to be at West Ham in the way that the players show to the fans that they gave everything," Grant told the Portsmouth News today.

“I am sure if they see that the players give everything, then they will show a good spirit, the fans will support them even if we lose games.”

Grant did admit though that he has always been impressed by the Hammers' support and hopes that his side can repay that faith with some long-awaited success next season.

“The fans here are great. I was here before for games and the thing I liked was the supporters.

“They are very passionate about the club and they deserve to see a good team. We will do everything to give them that.”