Joorabchian: West Ham can be bigger than Chelsea

Tribalfootball - Kia Joorabchian says West Ham United can emerge as a bigger club than Chelsea. Joorabchian, born in Iran but based in London, is believed to be fronting a 100million takeover bid for the Hammers.

Stock exchange rules forbid him from discussing his involvement but his commitment to the club is clear.

He told the News of the World: "I believe in the very near future West Ham can become bigger than Chelsea and maybe within seven years even challenge Manchester United.

"And certainly I feel manager Alan Pardew can take West Ham into new territory, to challenge for the Champions League and even the title.

"Manchester United are obviously an exception. Like Real Madrid they are huge all over the world but there is massive potential at West Ham. Why? Because the club has such passionate supporters and a fantastic history. As far as I'm concerned they have got a much bigger worldwide fan base than Chelsea.

"That goes back to part of the history of the club - having three World Cup winners in Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters.

"And what is so impressive is when they have hit bad times the passion and loyalty of the fans has seen them stick by the club.

"Passion is a vital word in the success of a football club. Sometimes when I look at Chelsea despite their recent success I think it's all a bit cold. They talk more about the brand than the football club."