Jose Fonte is ready to play his part in the Hammers unbeaten start to 2018 after a long injury lay off.

The Portugal central defender has finally recovered from an ankle injury and determined to show the new boss what he’s all about.

Speaking to the official site he said: “It’s been a while now, three months since I had the injury.

The new manager came in when I got injured, so I haven’t had the opportunity to show my abilities and I’m looking forward to coming back and helping the team to succeed.

We have a good momentum and are on a good run and I want to be part of it. I want to win, I want to be successful here and please the fans. I’m eager to go again and work really hard.

“I had surgery three months ago and had to wear a boot for four weeks. Then I was on crutches for a further four weeks and had to basically start again building strength in my calf and get the mobility in the ankle.

“Now everything is coming into place, I feel great, I feel strong and hope I can have a great second half of the season with the squad and go to the World Cup flying.

“I’m thinking for the Wigan game, if the manager and the physios think it’s a good idea, I could hopefully get a few minutes. If not, then the next game. I’m here to help and be a part of it.”