Aaron Cresswell signs one-year contract extension

West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan has celebrated the contract extensions handed to Michail Antonio and Aaron Cresswell, in a written statement published on the club’s website.

The defender has impressed in his two seasons at the East London club, after his move from Ipswich Town, winning Hammer of the Year in his debut season.

Liverpool were believed to be tracking the former Ipswich star and the interest from Anfield and Man City is believed to have forced the Hammers into discussing a fresh deal for the 26-year-old, who signed a five-year deal in July 2014.

West Ham head into the game looking to kick start their pre-season preparations in the best possible way, following a number of weeks away from the pitch on the back of last season’s Premier League campaign.

“The first game with Juventus is obviously going to be a fantastic day, and so is the season ahead”.

Antonio himself also admitted earlier this year that he turned down the opportunity to link up with the Jamaican national team in order to hold out for the call from England – there are always opportunities for new players after major tournaments, so his time could yet come.

He concluded “last year in Europe it was hard with coming back very early and traveling” as “we didn’t have much time to prepare” but “cant wait for them” this season as “were definitely well-equipped.” .

Seattle Sounders will this Wednesday welcome the visit of West Ham United to North America, with both teams set to go head to head in a club friendly.