Carlton Cole was in typically enthusiastic mood at London Stadium on Friday morning, as he unveiled the new West Ham United 2018/19 Home and Away kits.

Cole predicted exciting times ahead under new boss Manuel Pellegrini.

The former Hammers striker, still a huge favourite among the Claret and Blue faithful, told Sky Sports News that the experienced Chilean possesses all the right credentials to take the Club forward.

"It’s exciting times," he said. "We’ve got a world-class manager, one of the best in the Premier League now in my opinion. We know what his credentials are and what he can bring to the table, he’s obviously got the full support of the Board and the backing to help him take the Club to the next level.

"He brings experience at different levels. He has coached teams like Malaga, who may be considered lesser teams in their league but have over-achieved to enjoy great success. He is also going to bring that style of play that West Ham fans want to see.

We’ve got a world-class manager, one of the best in the Premier League now in my opinion Carlton Cole

"He is going to be attracting a few top players that he wants to fit into the team now. He may let a few go and let a few in. His money is going to be spent wisely.

"It's hard to [pick specific positions]. I think he needs to galvanise the team he has already got and then add a few players who can bring different angles to the team, and help approach the style of play he wants.

"You have to look at his history – he loves to play the ball on the floor. He will get some ball players in, and players who will make the team stronger.

“We’ve always had optimism, but last year we didn’t produce in the way we wanted to. This year we now have a different angle, we’re going to get behind the new manager from the start, and I’m so glad that he has been appointed so early, so that we can start restructuring in the right way for next season."

Cole has been involved in the Club’s #ImForever campaign to support the launch of the new Home and Away kits, and was suitably impressed by the garment he was asked to model.

“I’m loving the new kit,” he said. “It’s really light and stylish, a little more Claret with less Blue this time, but I think it’s giving a nice feel to a different era for the Club.”

The new West Ham United 2018/19 Umbro Home and Away kits are available to pre-order now in Adult, Junior, Infant and Baby sizes, starting from £40.