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Adrian confident Arbeloa will help West Ham to a phenomenal season

West Ham's Adrian celebrates their first goal (Reuters)
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The former Real Madrid defender joined the Hammers on deadline day.

Picture Supplied by Action Images - Alvaro Arbeloa

West Ham United goalkeeper Adrian has told Marca that he believes Alvaro Arbeloa will contribute to them having a phenomenal season.

The Spaniard was available on a free transfer this summer after his contract with La Liga giants Real Madrid came to an end.

He joined the Hammers on deadline day as a result, with manager Slaven Bilic looking to add quality to his defence for this season.

Specifically, he has been brought in to add competition for youngster Sam Byram at right-back and, more importantly, free up Michail Antonio for his more natural right wing role.

Real Madrid's Alvaro Arbeloa is thrown into the air by team mates after the match.

He is likely to be handed a first-team place at the club once he gets his fitness up to scratch, and Adrian says he is confident his compatriot will contribute to a successful season for them.

“It is good to have another Spaniard at the club and I’m sure he’ll contribute to us having a phenomenal season,” he told Marca.

“I don’t know him personally and haven’t spoken to him yet, but I’m happy to have another Spanish teammate here!”

Picture Supplied by Action Images *** Local Caption *** 2011-05-15T194823Z_1960154084_GM1E75G0ARM01_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-SPAIN.JPG

The signing of Arbeloa could prove to be something of a masterstroke for the Hammers this summer.

Not only does he add some much-needed competition and free up Antonio, he also brings a raft of experience to this current squad.

That could prove vital in the long run, especially in developing the likes of Byram for the future.

Picture Supplied by Action Images