AFTER serving the final match of his suspension against Leeds, Gavin Williams will go into the travelling squad for this Saturday's clash at Preston. And after taking his Hammers bow in the midweek Reserve game against Spurs, the £250,000 man from Yeovil can't wait for his first-team debut.
"I'm looking forward to being involved with the first-team," admitted Gavin. "It was a bit frustrating to miss out on a huge game against Leeds, so it will be good to travel with the lads, get used to them and maybe even be involved in the game.
"I've arrived at the right time of the season with so many games coming up over Christmas, so hopefully I can impress the manager enough to give me my chance in the side.
"It's always an edgy time leading up to your first-team debut, but I can't wait to play for the Club and hopefully I won't have to wait too long.
"It would be nice if I was involved this week, but if not then I'll just keep working hard in training and take my opportunity when it comes along. Preston will be a tough away trip, but we need the three points to give us a kick-start for the Christmas run, and the team are confident of getting a result."
Gavin had a lively claret and blue debut in the 2-2 draw with Spurs at Upton Park, winning his side a penalty and then supplying the cross that Malky Mackay headed home at the far post.
"The first-half wasn't great for us," he confessed, "but in the second-half we got in possession more and I think I did okay. I managed to win the penalty that Youssef Sofiane scored and then put in the cross for Malky to get the equaliser, so that was positive.
"It was good to get my first game under my belt, but I know I can do better and hopefully I'll be able to put in some decent performances for the Club in the next few weeks."
The 24-year-old midfielder also got his first outing at Upton Park and admits that the experience has whetted his appetitte for his first senior game in front of the Boleyn Ground faithful.
"Upton Park is a fantastic ground and I enjoyed my first game there," he said, "even though the crowd was not quite as big as it would be for first-team fixtures.
"I'm definitely looking forward to playing there for the senior side. It'll be a different kind of home fixture to what I'm used to.
"Yeovil had good support, but nothing like the 30,000 fans West Ham United get, so it should be a fantastic experience."
A versatile, not to mention skilful, midfielder Gavin has patrolled both flanks during his career and has even had spells up front. So, what is his favourite position?
"As long as I'm playing I don't really mind," he smiled. "I'm right-footed, so I probably feel most comfortable on the right side. That's where I started for the Reserves against Spurs. But I've played left-midfield all season for Yeovil and I don't feel out of place there.
"I've even played up front at times, which I did against Spurs for a bit, and although I prefer to be on the flanks, it's not a problem for me if I'm asked play there.
"I'll play wherever I'm asked to be honest, but hopefully it won't be in goal!"