Malky's Wish

Malky Mackay is confident that Calum Davenport will have a long, successful career in front of him - and hopes that he stays at West Ham until the end of the season.

Malky and Calum - currently on England U21 duty in Azerbaijan - have been the bedrock of the Hammers defence in recent weeks until Malky sustained a calf injury and he says:

"You can see why he has been snapped up at such a young age; he has played a lot of games for Coventry in this division and you can see why Spurs have taken a chance with him because he has done very well.

"I hope we can keep him as long as possible; you look at him and Chris Powell and they have adapted so easily, it's incredible.

"The stronger the squad is the better our title chances so hopefully he won't be called back until next season.

"But once he gets his feet under the table at Spurs I have no doubt he is going to be a big player for them and a huge player in the future.

"He is with the England U21s at the moment and they are having a good look at him just now; I am sure that a little bit of experience with them and us, followed by Premier League football, will mean the world is his oyster.

"He is a young kid and he has got a long time in front of him so if he is managed in the proper way I definitely see an England shirt on his back in the future."

Malky had to sit it out against Wolves last weekend - but reveals he was as enthusiastic as the most vocal of paying customers.

"I was absolutely delighted when the goal went in; I was jumping high as a kite and it was a great finish from Teddy and thoroughly deserved on the day.

"It is difficult sitting watching but it is great to see the boys get a win; I want them to win every game.

"We created some good chances and played well as a team - and don't forget Wolves are a resolute, tough team."

Malky's support for the Hammers didn't extend to booing Paul Ince, of course, and he smiles:

"I don't realise there was such a strong feeling about him - it was a long, long time ago but there is obviously something still there.

"But I thought our midfield dominated the situation on the day."