Pablo Zabaleta says West Ham United need to keep up the momentum when they welcome Arsenal to London Stadium on Wednesday evening.
The Hammers go into their second straight derby having gained confidence by pushing Premier League leaders Manchester City all the way, before beating champions Chelsea.
And right-back Zabaleta, who was in typically determined form in Saturday’s success, says David Moyes need to maintain the same standards when they face the Gunners.
“We didn’t start the season the way we expected but we showed in the last two games that with that spirit and commitment and discipline, we are a good team” said the Argentina international, who covered 10.73km against Chelsea.
“You need to show that for 90 minutes. We should have more points so we need to learn from our mistakes and keep moving forward.
“Hopefully we can put another good performance in against Arsenal on Wednesday night. I’m sure the supporters will be behind us. It’s time to stick together and be positive.”
Zabaleta himself is clearly enjoying West Ham’s belated renaissance, none more so than during Saturday’s superb victory over Antonio Conte’s Blues – a team he enjoyed so many top-of-the-table battles with during nine seasons with Manchester City.
Now, the 32-year-old faces a different sort of challenge; inspiring West Ham to the victories they need to steer clear of the relegation zone.
While he may be older, he is also wiser, and his enthusiasm and passion for the game burn as bright as they ever have.
“Football today is physically so demanding and you need to be a good professional to keep performing week in and week out,” he observed. “Since I’ve been here at West Ham I’ve always tried to give my best and I will continue to.
“I have the experience you need to help the young lads in that team but also I need to work really hard. My position is to run up and down for 90 minutes, to support an attack and be ready to track back and defend. I thought I did quite well.
“My love of the game is probably the last thing I will lose as a football player. I’m so hungry to keep playing in football and I came to West Ham to enjoy that. It’s a great club.
“My fighting spirit makes me feel young. I wake up every morning and go in for training trying to be a good professional and that will never change!”