West Ham United loanee Antonio Nocerino has admitted that he is excited by the prospect of making his debut against Chelsea tonight.

The Italian midfielder joined the Hammers from AC Milan over the weekend on a deal until the end of the season.

Nocerino, 28, is now looking forward to the possibility of facing Chelsea when West Ham travel to Stamford Bridge in the Premier League.

"This is a very beautiful fixture," he told the club's official website. "It's an emotional time for me, making my first appearance for the club and with Chelsea's reputation and how they play at home.

"It is important for us to go there and get something from the game. It is a difficult place to go, but it is an opportunity for me to play my first game."

West Ham will climb out of the relegation zone if they avoid defeat against Chelsea.

Written by
Jack Prescott