Yossi's Quick Off The Mark

ISRAEL star Yossi Benayoun was delighted to score his first Hammers goal in the 4-0 triumph over Aston Villa and is hoping it will be the first of many strikes for West Ham United this season, as the 25-year-old continues to catch the eye with his exciting style of play.

"I was pleased to score for West Ham for the first time," he said, "and I am hoping to get more goals during the season.

"The team played very well against Aston Villa. They are a good team, but we controlled the game and deserved to win in the way we did.

"We were confident going into the match because it has been a strong start to the season. We have played well in every game and the team is settled. That means we are able to go out onto the pitch and play to our best.

"It was a great performance against Aston Villa and we were pleased to get four goals for the fans."



It was also Yossi's first Premier League strike, but the Israeli international midfielder has adapted effortlessly to the English game. His sublime vision and silky skill is reminiscent of countryman and former Hammer Eyal Berkovic, while Yossi has shown a tenacity in the challenge that belies his lack of physical stature.

And the £2.5 million signing from Racing Santander is enjoying his Premiership baptisim.

"It's been a good start for me and I am enjoying playing football for the Club," he said. "The Premier League is physical and tough, but I have not found it too much of a problem.

"I like to tackle, but my main strengths are with the ball and hopefully I have been able to show that over these opening games. I was not fit enough at the start of the season, but that has improved now and hopefully I can continue to play well for the team.

"We have a tough away game at Fulham this weekend, but it is a game we believe that we can get something from and hopefully we can.

"There is a good spirit and atmosphere and it's enjoyable being part of the team. Now we must focus on keeping our good start to the season going and make sure we get as many points as we can early on."

Manager Alan Pardew was also quick to praise the diminutive midfield playmaker.

"He is one of those players that makes you get up out of your seat," exclaimed Pards. "He is easy on the eye, he lets the ball drift across him in the same way that Zinedine Zidane does and it's very difficult to deal with him.

"He showed the other side to his game as well against Villa because he has a tremendous work ethic. I think he surprised a few people winning three headers against a 6ft 1in full-back.

"There is a presence about him on the pitch and there are all sorts of aspects to his game. He makes a real difference to the team."