Teddy's Six Appeal

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!

Is Teddy Sheringham your player of the season? Click here to vote online for your Hammer of the Year!