Valon Behrami has had another positive week so far at Chadwell Heath as he bids to return to competitive action.
The Switzerland midfielder was an unused substitute at Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend, having fought back from a medial ligament injury suffered at Stoke City in September. With matches against Newcastle United and Stoke City coming up in quick succession, Behrami is itching to play - especially as he has only figured in two games so far this campaign.
"I am feeling good," he said. "I have had some bad luck in the last two years with injuries and it seems I have spent a lot of time in this situation. It is normal that my confidence is not so high but I have been working hard and if I keep giving this effort, it will be OK.
"I am thinking positive. It is not always easy but it is great to be back with the team and ready to play again."
The 25-year-old relished travelling with the team to Molineux and exchanging banter with the home crowd as he warmed up on the sidelines. "It was nice to be with the squad at Wolves. I spoke to the manager and I wasn't ready to start the game. Maybe I could have played for ten or 20 minutes if I was needed.
"But it was OK because the team did very well and they didn't need me. For me, it was a positive day and I have another week to work again and improve my condition even more."
Behrami has a close bond with the Hammers support and is eager to show them what he is all about once more. He accepts that it is all about talking on the pitch rather than off it.
"It is very important for me to get back to playing. A lot of things have been written and said. The only place I can prove my commitment is on the pitch and I am here for that. I have maybe only played 90 minutes this season in two games. I don't want to be seen to be always talking about it. I want to demonstrate what I can do for the team.
"West Ham fans are passionate. They are here to see the team getting better and whoever plays, they get behind. If I play and provided I give 100 per cent, they will be happy. If not, they will let me know and that is right.
"I am working to start every game but I know the team are doing well. It is up to the manager of course. We have a game on Saturday and then on Wednesday. If you ask me, of course I will say I am ready to start both games but this is not my decision. I am ready when ever he thinks it is best."
With the team unbeaten in five matches and bidding to reach the Carling Cup finals with that Stoke match next week, Behrami has seen a noticeable lift in the mood. He is enjoying competing for places with the likes of Pablo Barrera and Victor Obinna adding to the attacking options.
"I can see a positive atmosphere at the training ground. The club signed quality players who give 100 per cent and everyone wants to avoid a season like last year. We didn't start very well but we are now unbeaten in five matches.
"We have found a good way to play and are doing what the manager wants. The Premier League is hard so you need to stay focused because the day you give 90 per cent is the day you will lose."