Tristan ready for Hammers bow

Striker could face Boro at weekend, but will miss Old Trafford trip

By Francisco Acedo   Last updated: 29th October 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Tristan ready for Hammers bow

Tristan: Ready to play

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Diego Tristan admits he is eager to make his West Ham United debut as the recent signing nears full fitness.

The Spanish striker joined the Hammers on a free transfer earlier this month after impressing Gianfranco Zola on trial.

Tristan had been hoping to feature in Wednesday's game at Manchester United, but Zola will not take the 32-year-old to Old Trafford.

However, Tristan could be involved in Saturday's trip to Middlesbrough and the former Deportivo La Coruna forward is keen to repay Zola's faith.

Personal challenge

"I am prepared to play and to help West Ham United, but the decision lies with the coach," Tristan told skysports.com.

"I am still not 100%, but after the last weeks of training I have increased my level.

"For me, to be at West Ham United is a personal challenge because during the summer I had a view of leaving football completely.

"Now Zola has given me a chance in England and I want to profit from this."

Tristan, who was released by Livorno at the end of last season, is confident he can make an impact in the Premier League when he is given a chance.

He added: "The game in England is very quick, but positive for the forwards. It is very offensive and there is also an enormous physical effort for the players because it is not easy to maintain this rhythm for 90 minutes.

"I believe that this team is capable of getting a good position in the table and, with a lot of hard work, we can obtain that."