Leon's Loan Hope

Leon Britton hopes to join Southend on loan after playing another reserve game for them next week.

Leon, who played in their reserves by way of a trial this week, says:

"I think I did okay and there is another reserve game, at Cambridge, on Tuesday.

"I really want to get out on loan for a bit to get league experience, but I am not too sure what is happening yet.

"There is a small chance, I believe, that I might be in West Ham's squad on Sunday because there are so many injuries, but I doubt it.

"Southend are a good bunch of lads, and although they have lost four on the trot, they were about sixth before that.

"Their manager Rob Newman has spoken to West Ham, and I am just waiting to see what happens now."

* At least West Ham are in the top half of one league: on Thursday night a West Ham team finished 19th out of 40 in the annual sports quiz for the Bobby Moore Fund.

Guesting for the Hammers was jockey Richard Dunwoody, who says:

"I had a thoroughly good evening - even though I am an Arsenal fan - and I'll be looking to visit the 'Academy' soon."

The evening, hosted by Des Lynam and sponsored by Cititgroup, raised £105, 372.