Source: Daily_Mail
Thomas Hitzlsperger pleased to be back as German eyes West Ham safety
West Ham midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has urged his team-mates not to rest on their laurels following their recent renaissance.[LNB]The Germany international joined the Hammers from Lazio in the summer but did not make his debut until February due to a longstanding thigh injury.[LNB]Hitzlsperger's first appearance came in the 5-1 FA Cup fifth-round demolition of Burnley, before helping West Ham to consecutive Barclays Premier League victories over Liverpool and Stoke.[LNB] Hammer time: Thomas Hitzlsperger netted his second goal for West Ham in last weekend's win over Stoke[LNB]The 28-year-old has netted twice in his first three matches and has become a key part of Avram Grant's side, whose recent form has propelled them out of the relegation zone.[LNB]While Hitzlsperger admits he is delighted to be playing again, West Ham still linger dangerously close to the precipice and he knows there are plenty of hurdles still to overcome.[LNB]'I'm enjoying being back playing again,' he told West Ham TV. [LNB]'That's three games and three wins, so what more could I ask for?[LNB]'I've scored again on Saturday and it's a pure joy being out there. The fans are behind us and there is a very good atmosphere.[LNB] Middle men: Hitzlsperger is enjoying his midfield partnership with Hammers talisman Scott Parker[LNB]'We're in a difficult phase at the moment, but we seem to be handling the pressure very well.[LNB]'The business is not finished yet, though. There is a long way to go and we're looking forward to it.'[LNB]Much of West Ham's change in fortunes has been due to the midfield triumvirate of Hitzlsperger, Scott Parker and Mark Noble.[LNB]Speaking on their understanding, Hitzlsperger added: 'I think there is a very good understanding, even though we haven't played many games with each other.[LNB]'All three of us in midfield like to have many touches of the ball and to change our positions and be creative.'[LNB] He's a big Hitz! West Ham boss Grant praises German after superb startPolice step up security for Stoke and West Ham's cup tie after fan clashesWest Ham 3 Stoke City 0: Grant slates rivals over approach for hot-shot BaAll the latest West Ham news, features and opinion [LNB] Explore more:People: Thomas Hitzlsperger Places: Liverpool, Germany
