Alphonse Areola says West Ham do not care about the cost of Chelsea’s starting XI after saving a penalty by £107million Enzo Fernandez.
The goalkeeper’s spot-kick save was the turning point for West Ham in their derby win, denying the World Cup winner when the scores were level before going on to win 3-1 over Chelsea.
Areola is the first goalkeeper to dent Fernandez from 12 yards, further boosting his stance as West Ham’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Chelsea were also able to hand a debut to new £115m signing Moises Caicedo, who endured a miserable first outing capped off with giving away an injury time penalty.
Asked about facing Chelsea’s expensively assembled team, he said: “I don’t think about the prices but they are a big team.
“They won the Champions League not long ago and we showed we can compete against that kind of team.
“We showed we have character, can be strong at the back and score goals.
“Last season was tough but we are trying to use that experience to be stronger and build ourselves up.”
Areola also made a key save from Noni Madueke's deflected shot in the 93rd minute before Lucas Paqueta sealed victory with a last-minute penalty, and Areola has credited keeper coach Xavi Valero for his performances.
Areola added: “We always watch everyone’s penalties, they watch us too so it is kind of a mental game. I was ready after seeing the last one he took at the World Cup.
“It feels good to help the team. I kept the team in the game and we won in the end because of the efforts of everyone.”
