Ben Haim battling on

Tal Ben Haim is looking forward to making an impact during the busy Christmas period for West Ham United.

The Israel defender has played in every defensive position for the club this season but looks likely to retain his right-back berth for the trip to Fulham on Boxing Day. He is on his best run of matches for the Hammers, starting the last four fixtures.

Ben Haim was his usual uncompromising self away to Blackburn Rovers last weekend, playing his part in a battling display.

"We played some good football and created some good chances," he said. "In the first half there were two good chances, second half even more chances and I think we kept them on very low chances.

"All in all I think we could win the game, but a draw away from home is not a bad result, though we expect more obviously."

Ben Haim experienced a relegation fight last season at Portsmouth, the club he left in the summer to join the Hammers on loan until January. He believes there is a real spirit in this squad to get out of trouble.

"We are very positive and we are looking forward to the games coming up. We are looking forward to Fulham and want to get all three points. We are never happy with just a point. Obviously every game that we come into, we want to win - football is about winning."

Ben Haim will also not mind if he has to continue in a full-back role, underlining his willingness to do his best for the cause. "My favourite position is still in the centre, but if the team needs me to play on the right, it is fine for me to do that."