West Ham United FC

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Nigel focused on England

11 Jun 2007 - 07:47:26

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West Ham United captain Nigel Reo-Coker insists he is putting thoughts of his club career to the back of his mind to concentrate on the Under-21 European Championship.

Reo-Coker has asked to leave Upton Park after becoming disillusioned during a difficult last season which almost ended in relegation.

The 23-year-old came under fire from sections of the home fans after a string of below-par performances and has already been the subject of a reported £7million approach from Aston Villa.

But Reo-Coker, who will captain the England Under-21 side during the tournament in the Netherlands, claims he is only focused on helping Stuart Pearce's side to international glory.

"If I said it was easy I'd be lying," he said, referring to rumours surrounding his club career.

"It's not easy but at the end of the day it's about being professional and that's got to be put to the back of my mind, which it is.

"It's nothing to do with my personal career, it's all about the under-21s."

Meanwhile, Reo-Coker believes England have the personnel to triumph despite losing Gabriel Agbonlahor before the tournament when the Aston Villa striker went missing plus last week's withdrawal of David Bentley through 'fatigue'.

"It has hurt us but it's not down to me to comment on that situation," he continued.

"As a squad we have to get on with it and we're very excited about the tournament.

"We're more than equipped with the squad we have - every player here wants to be here and wants to win. That's all we care about."