Edgar eager to return

Anthony Edgar's recovery from a knee problem is going well and he could return to light training later this week.

The flying winger, who was a revelation with the first team in pre-season with two goals, saw his progress hampered by injury in a reserve-team friendly at Queen's Park Rangers on 24 August. He had surgery a week later and has been committed to returning to form and fitness as soon as possible.

The homegrown Hammer, who made his senior debut in last season's FA Cup third-round match against Arsenal, signed a new deal in the summer. It was a major lift for the youngster and he is pleased with his rehabilitation to date.

"I am doing really well," he said. "I have been running for a week or two. Hopefully I will be in light training this week and push on from there. I am in the gym every day and working hard. It has been a long haul.

"The other lads have kept me going. They put their hand on my shoulder and said 'You did well [in the summer], just go again'. I believe in my ability. In a way I am happy it happened at the start of the season rather than in the middle. I just have to get back on my feet and keep going."

Edgar has remained busy off the pitch and took time out last week to attend a Premier League 4 Sports event in tandem with the West Ham United Community Sports Trust at Royal Docks Community School in Custom House.  Local youngsters also took part in an afternoon designed to raise awareness of judo as an Olympic sport - with Stratford-based British judo star Jermaine McIntosh the main attraction.

"It is really good to see the guys in action," added Edgar. "After watching their performances I will be looking out for them at the Olympics. Nowadays it is better to keep healthy, keep fit and do sports. It is good for the community and it is good to see so many children involved.

"Judo looks like a physically demanding sport so to get this far in the sport is a good achievement. Hopefully they can push on get stronger."