Taking pictures of training on the eve of the West Ham game, you couldn't help but notice the beaming smiles on the faces of the players.

The likes of Charles N'Zogbia, Darren Bent, Ron Vlaar, Karim El Ahmadi, Brett Holman and Ciaran Clark were all in upbeat mood as they geared up for the Upton Park clash.

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Manager Paul Lambert will be eager to see those generous grins transferred on to the faces of the fans, who will glow in the stands on Saturday.

Lambert admits he "can't wait" to take his side down to the capital as they begin the 2012-13 campaign against the newly-promoted side.

He's been thrilled with the efforts of his players in preparing for the curtain-raiser.

He said: "The general attitude of the team has been very, very good.

"I'm really looking forward to it. I can't wait for the competitive games to start - the atmosphere, the adrenaline rush and trying to win as many games as we can. That's what we will try and do.

"This is our first game in earnest and we will try and win.

"We have to hit the ground running and that is what we will try and do. You have to be ready. There is no turning back now. You are in it and have to be ready for it."

Neville Williams was given exclusive access to training on the eve of the clash at Upton Park and produced a brilliant array of action shots.

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