For six months, Antonio Nocerino was a West Ham player.
The Italian midfielder was loaned to the Hammers by Milan between January and June of the 2013-14 season, where he made 10 appearances in the Premier League and picked up one assist.
He then returned to Italy, where he continued to be loaned out to both Torino and Parma before moving on a free transfer to Orlando City in the MLS; a club he has since returned to after retiring to work as a Youth Coach.
The 35-year-old is currently in Florida, where he is using the spare time to study and keeping up to date with what he needs to do for when his job starts up again.
Speaking to Nicolò Schira on Instagram Live, the player was asked about his time at West Ham.
Relayed by TuttoB.com, he said: “The Premier League was a beautiful experience. There was Borriello there too. Playing in England makes you grow: I discovered a different football to ours. Amazing atmosphere for 90 minutes with kids in the stands.
“A beautiful image of sport and culture. Modern stadiums and an incredible passion. The Hammers have an incredible history and I keep those months in my heart.”
It seems Nocerino thoroughly enjoyed his time with West Ham, which appears to be a common trend with Italians when they play for the London club.
We all know the affinity the London Stadium faithful (we know it was Upton Park at the time) have for Paolo Di Canio and players like Alessandro Diamanti have expressed their regret at leaving the Hammers when they did.
