Former West Ham United midfielder John Moncur believes that the club are taking big steps forward to becoming one of the elite sides in English football.

The Hammers are due to move into the Olympic Stadium before 2016, and Moncur has insisted that it is a "major step" in the club's development.

The 46-year-old told the Daily Star: "It is a clear message that we want to grow with the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham and join the elite set of clubs.

"West Ham are moving forward and this is a major step, to get a stadium that is probably going to be the best in the country. With the signings that we are making to add to the stadium, I think it is all fantastic for the club.

"Andy Carroll is a massive signing for us and sends a clear message out to everyone that we want to get in the top half of the league again this year."

Moncur made 176 league appearances for West Ham between 1994 and 2003.