Kieron Dyer is fighting for his future at West Ham United.

The News of the World says Dyer has been given a month to prove his fitness or face being forced into retirement.

Hammers new owners David Sullivan and David Gold have embarked on a severe cost-cutting regime.

The main focus has been on reducing club debts but they are also viewing player excesses.

It is felt that the time has come for Dyer to prove he can still perform or face being offered a severance package.

Midfielder Dyer, 31, has made just 18 appearances since a £6million move from Newcastle 2½-years ago.

The former England player is on £60,000 a week and each outing has effectively cost the club around £460,000.

Dyer has 18 months of his contract to run but a verdict on his future is expected in three weeks.