West Ham's Jonathan Spector giving Gianfranco Zola fresh hope for optimism

With West Ham still in the relegation zone and with a busy winter programme sure to bring injuries and suspensions, the appearance of right-back Spector in the centre of defence will give the manager more options. Spector will win his 23rd cap for the USA against Denmark tomorrow and could again partner former Fulham defender Carlos Bocanegra in the centre.  Related ArticlesUpson committed to West Ham causeKieran Gibbs shines for England U21sDavid James's World Cup place in doubtSilva: England gave ball away quite easilyEngland prepared to fail against BrazilJohn Terry: Brazil nothing to worry aboutBob Bradley, the US coach, said: 'Jonathan and Carlos played well together and showed good understanding. It's the first time we've used Spector as a centre-back and he was good.' Spector added: 'I'm used to being back there. I played in that position throughout my career with youth national teams and club teams.' The ability of Spector to play a more central role could prove interesting if West Ham were to lose England defender Matthew Upson in the January transfer window. Zola has insisted he is keeping Upson, despite interest in the summer and expected offers in the New Year. And Upson has insisted he is 'fully concentrated' on West Ham ahead of the World Cup finals in the summer. Upson added: 'I don't think I have made many mistakes individually this season but we have conceded a lot of goals. 'That is a problem and something we need to get better at. But I won't let it affect my international aspirations. I am at West Ham, that is my club.'

Source: Telegraph