Curbishley: Much to ponder

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Alan Curbishley insists he has the full support of the West Ham board and will not be driven out of the club.

The Hammers boss has endured a difficult week, seeing his side lose 3-0 at Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday, before needing extra-time to dispose of League Two Macclesfield in the Carling Cup on Wednesday.

The Upton Park faithful made their feelings known throughout the 4-1 victory over the Silkmen, barracking the manager from the terraces.

Curbishley admits the current situation is far from ideal, but will not walk away from his post.

"What can I do about it apart from win games and keep going?" he said.

"I've had this now for a little while, I'll get on with it, I'm a big boy as I've said before.

"The disappointing thing is the players are the ones that have to go out and perform. The fans are brilliant when they are behind us and they have to realise the effect it has when they are not behind us. It can all change at the weekend.

"Football is a bit like this, you go through periods like this. It has happened to other managers and happened a bit last year."

Responsibility

West Ham fans are disappointed by what they see as unattractive football, and Curbishley accepts he faces a challenge to win them over.

"We have to win some games and play better football," he added.

"I understand the responsibility of being West Ham manager, I've watched games at Upton Park and other managers here have had similar criticism.

"You have to get on with it, it's part and parcel that fans let you know when they are not happy. It's part and parcel of being part of this club and I'm not going to duck away from it."

The Hammers boss also believes he continues to enjoy the backing of the club's hierarchy.

"I'm in no doubt about that since I've been here," he said.