STEPHEN HENDRIE is determined to make a flying start for West Ham following his summer switch from Hamilton.

The left-back made the move to London last month after another impressive campaign at New Douglas Park.

The Hammers will play their first game of the season against FC Lusitans in the Europa League tonight and Hendrie hopes he can catch the eye of new boss Slaven Bilic.

He said: “When I signed my contract I was eager to come down and meet the new boys and manager. It has been great.

“I know Slaven is a great manager and taking Croatia to the quarter-finals of the Euros shows the qualities he has.

“It is brilliant for me to join West Ham when we are playing in Europe and it will be great for the players to express themselves in the Europa League.

“I like to get forward and whip in crosses, but also be solid at the back. There is great competition for places and Aaron Cresswell obviously won the Hammer of the Year last season, but I am looking forward to the challenge.”