Ephraim Wants West Ham Chance

Hogan Ephraim, held in such high regard at Colchester United, has effectively quashed all hopes of a return to the U`s after admitting he wants to prove himself at West Ham.

Ephraim has just completed a loan spell with QPR and there had been terrace talk that the England youth starlet would attract a bid from Colchester, particularly following a recent injection of funds by United`s owner Robbie Cowling.

The U`s would have been well-placed to prize the youngster from Upton Part, given Cowling`s former links as sponsor of the Hammers and the fact that Colchester`s Teddy Sheringham is Ephraim`s biggest idol in the modern game.

Ephraim, however, told West Ham`s official club website, WHUFC, this week that he now wants to attract the attentions of Alan Curbishley as he attempts to carve out a reputation for himself in the Premiership.

"The manager has not really seen a lot of me because when he came last year I was [on loan] at Colchester.

"I am not sure if he has seen much of me at QPR but I will just do my best in training and whatever will happen, will happen," he said.

Ephraim continued: "I am at the age now where I am desperate to play first-team football."

"With playing regularly last season, and at the start of this season, that is all I want now. Hopefully that will happen at West Ham.

"I feel I am ready for it and hopefully the manager will give me a chance. I just want to get my head down. I will do my best and hopefully that will be enough."

Ephraim must also win a new contract in London, as his current deal expires at the end of the season.

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