Thilo Kehrer is finding the new competition for places a highly intense situation but is determined to play as many games as possible as we head into the next phase of the season.
He appeared against TSC in the absence of Vladi Coufal and produced a perfectly competent performance but refuses to deny his position.
He declared: “I want to play every game. I’m not hiding that. I want to play as much as possible. I wouldn’t call it pressure though because I want to enjoy every minute I get. I’m giving my best in training and preparing myself, and that’s all I can do.
“We have competition for places here. If you’re not playing then you’re not happy, of course. You want to play as much as possible but, also, it’s very good for the team.
“Everybody needs to take their chances when they come, because that’s the best way to get results for the team, which will then give the entire squad a boost.”
The Irons return to domestic action this weekend with a trip to Anfield and will be looking to return to winning ways in the Premier League after a first league loss of the season last time out.
Kehrer would clearly love to be a part of things and said: “We’ve started well this season and it’s another tough game coming up.
“Against Man City, we defended very well through the whole game. I think we missed out on small details which cost us the result in the end. But we want to keep our good momentum going.”
After his maiden start of the season, Kehrer is eager to make even more appearances as the Hammers step into a busy September and October schedule.
The German international conceded that no player likes not playing but knows the quality in the West Ham squad means there is immense competition for places which, in turn, will make the entire team better.