8 February 2007, by Sean Gillen

Boa Morte a happy Hammer

Winger calls for fighting spirit

West Ham’s Luis Boa Morte says he is happy with the way he has adapted to his new club, and called on his team-mates to show the strength of character needed to climb out of their relegation troubles.

The Portuguese moved to the Hammers from fellow London side Fulham last month, and is happy with the way he has been received by all at Upton Park, but hopes that the team’s fortunes on the pitch will improve soon.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here so far. I’ve felt very welcomed by everyone and I feel happy and settled,” said the 29-year-old.

“But we haven’t won and that’s been unfortunate. We have collected some points but we’re looking forward to putting together a winning run.”

“The atmosphere here is really good,” he said. “The supporters are really passionate and they want to get behind the team.”

“Of course they get frustrated when things don’t happen but we always work hard to give them something to cheer about - we want to give them something to be happy about. We need the fighting spirit.”

Memorable debut

Boa Morte’s league debut last month was a memorable one, as he took on his former side Fulham at Upton Park. The match ended level at 3-3, with the Cottagers denying West Ham the win with a last-minute equaliser.

“There was a heartbreaking finish to that game but we have had to get on with it. We have to play Watford on Saturday and we have to win.”

“It was a strange situation (to play against Fulham) but I knew that it would come at some point. It was good that it came sooner rather than later.”

With the team currently five points adrift of safety, the match on Saturday at home against bottom-placed Watford would appear a must win game, and Boa Morte and co will be hoping to take all three points against the Hornets.