The Hammers avoided relegation from the Premier League at the expense of Hull City last season, recording a disappointing 17th placed finish. Hitzlsperger became the first signing of new manager Avram Grant's reign at Upton Park and the capture from Lazio believes the Hammers will avoid a relegation battle this season. He told the club's official website: "I am sure the team will do better. There is a lot of talent here and it is about getting the players right and delivering what the fans want. The club has had injury problems but we just need luck there. "The quality is there and there might be a few more changes. I can see there is talent and if we can produce more often than last season then things will go well. Europe is the place to be but we have to be realistic. "Certainly no one wants to just be fighting relegation - this is not what we are here for. We know we can't expect to fight for the championship but we must improve on last season and that is what we should aim for. "We have to all put together and it will come together - the discipline and the quality you need to get results." The move from Serie A to the Premier League will be Hitzlsperger's second spell in the English top flight following a four-year stint with Aston Villa. The 28-year-old left for pastures new in his German homeland to play for Stuttgart, where he spent a further four years before leaving to join Lazio in January. The transfer window move proved frustrating for the midfielder, though, as he struggled to feature regularly for the Italian side. But Hitzlsperger revealed he was ready to put the disappointment behind him with the Hammers this season and said he could not wait to pull on the United shirt. He said: "When you don't play regularly and you are watching, it leaves you frustrated. I know this club also had a frustrating season. Things will be different. "Stuttgart was a great experience but I am glad to be going back to the Premier League. My experience in Italy wasn't great but it will help make me stronger for this new challenge." He added: "I am really motivated to do well. I like the claret and blue colours very much and it will be great to pull on the West Ham shirt. "I also remember the stadium as well. They tell me it is special at night and I can't wait to experience that."
