Kevin Nolan believes West Ham’s achievement in their first season back in the Premier League is just the first step on a road which will end with “European nights” at the club’s new Olympic Stadium home.
Nolan, who scored his first goal since January in the 2-0 win over Wigan which all but mathematically ensures West Ham’s safety, said: “It’s about getting stronger and stronger now, working towards that Olympic Stadium and making sure we are successful so we can have some European nights there.
“When I first walked into the club it was in a sorry state. Players didn’t want to be here and everyone was on the floor. What we’ve done in a short space of time is fantastic but we can’t get carried away.”
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is expected to sign a new contract soon and Nolan said: “I want to carry on playing for this fantastic club for a few years yet and with big Sam at the helm, we have a really good chance of progressing.
“I am sure his new contract will be done and dusted very soon so we can begin talking about next year and who he wants to bring in.”
For Wigan, who are at home to Tottenham next, relegation looks increasingly likely following this defeat but Nolan sees only good times ahead for West Ham.
“We’re starting to see a team come together, gel together and grow strong together,” said Nolan.
“The goal was very sweet and there was no ‘chicken’ celebration afterwards because it was in the memory of two people close to me to have just passed away - a good friend Peter and an aunt.”
