Roeder keen for Lee to stay

The 37-year-old left Derby County at the end of last season but, despite his age, is still fit and keen to continue his playing career.

He was offered the chance to train with the Hammers' squad during pre-season and has played in both the club's warm-up games so far.

Roeder made it clear to Lee earlier this month that he could not promise to find him a place in the squad, but it now appears that the boss wants to work out a deal to bring him to the club.

He told the club's official website: "We are very pleased with what Robert Lee has contributed, not just in the matches but in the training and the way he has integrated with the rest of the squad.

"He has got such a reputation in the game throughout his playing career, playing for England, Newcastle and Charlton.

"He is very highly respected in the game at 37, and we are hopeful that when we get back to England we can sit down and do something with Rob that is acceptable to him.

"I would certainly like to be able to get him in the squad this year, that's for sure."

Lee played for nearly ten years at Newcastle and won 21 England caps, scoring two goals for his country, and while he may now be in the twilight of his career, Roeder feels that he still has plenty to offer in the First Division.

"His fitness seems very good and he has looked after himself," added the Hammers' boss. "Ten years ago at 27 Rob Lee was one of the top three or four midfield players in the country.

"Obviously he is not going to be able to get around as much as he could then but he has got a very sharp brain and reads the game well.

"He has got two yards in his head and the important thing with Rob is that he retains the ball for you - he is very good at receiving the ball off the back four and then he keeps it - he rarely gives it away.

"If we could find a way of bringing him to the club for a year we would like to do it."