Anton Ferdinand and Nigel Reo-Coker helped England under-21s to victory over arch-rivals Germany in the first leg of their European Championship qualifying play-off on Friday evening.
The Hammers pair both impressed as Peter Taylor's youngsters secured a 1-0 win - thanks to Leighton Baines's stunning 77th minute strike - ahead of the return leg in Leverkusen on Tuesday.
Ferdinand came through the entire 90 minutes unscathed following his return from a hamstring strain, while Reo-Coker produced a typically combative performance in the centre of midfield during an entertaining affair at Coventry City's Ricoh Arena stadium.
Should England hold on to their lead in Germany on Tuesday, they will qualify for the European under-21 Championships in Holland next summer.