Wellington Paulista has shown his commitment to the West Ham United cause by snubbing the sun in Dubai to play for the U21s in the snow.

The rest of the Hammers' first-team squad flew to the Middle East for six days of warm-weather training after Sunday's dismal 2-1 defeat at struggling Aston Villa.

Reserve-team striker Paulista was invited to join the party but told boss Sam Allardyce he would play in Friday's Development Squad game against Southampton.

An Upton Park insider admitted to The Sun: "Everyone was a bit surprised to hear about Wellington turning down the chance to go.

"He plays for a top-six side in Brazil but has come to West Ham to prove himself. And he is happy to play in front of 300 fans for the reserves to do so.

"He's 28 and in his youth scored against Barcelona at the Nou Camp so he knows what the big time is.

"He says staying here will help make him fitter and reckons playing for the reserves will get him fitter than going to Dubai.

"This boy could surprise a few people."