It gives us extra motivation to think 'yes it can be done'. There's an outside chance maybe a few of us might be promoted to the World Cup squad due to injuries but at the same time we have our own objective which is European Championship qualification.

It's a fantastic start,

Since I arrived here I've been very happy here and I'm looking forward to being part of what I believe will be a very bright future at West Ham.

It's a respect thing. If Teddy or the other senior players didn't respect me as captain, I wouldn't be captain. It's give and take and treat other people as you want to be treated. There is not one dominant voice as people might think. Everyone really does try to be a leader on the pitch.

It's nice to see the likes of Darren Bent, Kieran Richardson and Stewart Downing promoted to the seniors,

Everyone got a chance to participate and make a difference.