Diego Tristan has spoken of his satisfaction at getting off the mark in a West Ham United shirt and is eager to go on and make an impact at senior-team level.
The Spanish striker scored the first and last goals for his side in the 4-3 reserve win against Chelsea on Tuesday night, as part of a strong display up front alongside Freddie Sears that saw both register during a welcome 90 minutes apiece. As well as his two goals - a fierce first-half shot and a late second-half header - Tristan showed his awareness with an assist for Tom Harvey.
Tristan said: "For a striker, goals are always important for your confidence, and it was also good for me to play 90 minutes and get back into the rhythm of a match. The first goal I linked up with Walter [Lopez] and got in a shot from outside the area; I got a header for the second.
"It will give me confidence even if it is a reserve game because goals are the lifeblood for every striker. I am working well and feeling better every day in training and although I've not had the chance to play every week, it was a good chance for a run-out.
Having been given a brief taster of the Boleyn Ground at the start of the month with his debut appearance off the bench against Tottenham Hotspur - "I was really pleased to be able to feel the connection between the players and the supporters," he said - Tristan is hungry for more.
"It is important to be ready for when the team needs me and I hope I can make a contribution with my goals. I know that Carlton Cole and Craig Bellamy are doing very well but I want to have my chance and I hope to get it soon.
"I am satisfied with my progress. It is fine playing for the reserves, but my aim is to be out there playing every weekend. I hope to have a run-out on Saturday and do my bit to help the team." Tristan is also playing his part in terms of his squad-mates, particularly those younger players who can only benefit from his international and Champions League know-how.
Speaking specifically of his strike partner Sears, Tristan added: "Freddie has great qualities. I'd like to help all my team-mates and if I can give the young players some help with my experience then all the better."