Trevor: It's Tough

Trevor Brooking admits that watching the Hammers fighting against the drop now is a lot harder than when he was playing in similar circumstances.

"It is a lot worse," he says. "You have got no actual involvement when you watch but when I was playing we had two relegation seasons where at least you had an involvement and could try and make an impact.

"Once the first ball is kicked, one missed opportunity or lack of concentration could make a big difference to getting a win or draw or nothing, and as each match goes by it gets more and more crucial for the future of the club.

"It is very tense but I think the more the side picks up points and you can see them playing confidently, you feel much more encouraged.

"A month ago you were wondering where to string one win together, let alone two, and the most encouraging factor, despite still being in a relegation position, is that it is one from five now rather than three from four.

"That is better, and while you keep on not losing games, that puts pressure on teams above."

Trevor is happy about the increased competition at Upton Park and adds: "I think more than anything you hope everyone has come through international week and if that is so then there is the dilemma with Les and Jermain, and I thought Fredi did very well in the second half against Sunderland.

"So he is pushing, and of course you have Paolo, then there is Lee Bowyer coming in for one of the four midfield positions.

"So it is a problem, but one Glenn relishes and which gives the opportunity to make changes.

"It is a much healthier position than having the same personnel week in, week out, because you can't shuffle the pack.

"That is what we have been aiming at since the start of the season; since the return to fitness of Paolo and Fredi that competition has very much been there - and the more it continues the more likely results are going to be achieved."