NOT many players set new career records at the age of 39.
Then again, Teddy Sheringham is no ordinary player. Rolling back
the years and showing the enthusiasm of a fresh-faced teenager,
Teddy has been a revelation for the Hammers this season.
In the 3-0 win over Coventry, the former England star tucked away
his 20th League goal of the season from the penalty spot. It was
the first time in his illustrious career that Teddy has scored in
six consecutive games, and it prompted the Champions League winner
to pronounce that he wants to continue playing beyond the end of
this season.
"I definitely want to play on next season," he insisted.
"I've still got the hunger in me and I hope the fans can
see that I'm still committed to what I do.
"We've got some terrific young players in the team and
their enthusiasm certainly rubs off on me.
"I'm enjoying my football now as much as I've ever
been and seeing some of the players coming through at the Club only
makes me more determined to continue."
Despite holding Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League
winners' medals, Teddy's appetite for West Ham United's
promotion challenge remains undiminished.
"We can't afford to give anything less than 100 per
cent," he insisted. "At no time can a professional
footballer get away with not giving maximum effort, but at this
stage of the season it's crucial because there are so many
teams around you waiting to pick up the pieces.
"We've put in a tremendous effort over the last week and
really reaped the rewards with three straight wins.
"But it can't stop there. We've got to keep pushing
and make sure that when one of the teams above us slips us,
we're there to take their place.
"There's no way any team chasing those Play-off places can
relax, and that's how it's going to be right up until the
end of the season."
Teddy began his career as a trainee at this Saturday's
opponents, Millwall, scoring 111 goals in 261 appearances for the
Lions before attracting the attention of Brian Clough at Nottingham
Forest.
Despite the rivalry between the two teams, Teddy is looking forward
to coming face to face with his old club this weekend.
"They gave me my big chance as a professional footballer
and I loved every minute of it there," he insisted.
I'm indebted to Millwall for the chance they gave me.
They're a very difficult crowd to win over but glad I did in
the end.
"I know they are not too pleased that I'm playing for West
Ham now but life goes on for a professional footballer and I want
to carry on playing football. I'm loving every minute of it at
West Ham and it's going to be another really crucial game for
us this weekend.
"Both teams need the points and I'm sure both sets of fans
are really looking forward to the game. It should be a great
atmosphere and all our lads are looking forward to it.
"Hopefully we can keep this positive run going and put on
another decent display."
HAMMER OF THE YEAR 2005!
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Teddy's Six Appeal
12th April 2005