Walter Lopez is ready to be patient for another crack at the West Ham United first team after a solid midweek reserve-team run-out.
The 22-year-old left-back turned in an energetic display on his first-team bow against Watford in the Carling Cup last month. He followed that up with an encouraging showing in the 4-3 reserves win against West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday in front of the watching Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke. As well as some forceful runs up the flank, his header paved the way for Freddie Sears' last-gasp winner.
"It was a good game and I enjoyed it very much. It was a good experience. My favourite thing is to attack and get forward from the back," the three-times capped Uruguayan international said. "We got the win and it was important for the team and also very important for me to play. I need to show what I can do as I am looking to break into the first team. My hope is to do this in the next months.
"I really like it here at West Ham and in London. My family are here now and I am very happy to have this chance," added the new recruit. Lopez is aware that he and the others on show have to stake their claim for the senior side but also understands he faces a battle to dislodge the experienced Herita Ilunga at left-back. "The first team are doing very well. There are top players in the team. I need to show that I can win a place."