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West Ham defender Spector happy to be back in USA squad

West Ham United defender Jonathan Spector is delighted to be back in the USA squad. Spector is back after six months on the sidelines with a hip problem and told whufc.com: "It's definitely great to be back with the team. Last time I was in I had a hip problem and the US team physician diagnosed it. I couldn't be happier to be back playing, first of all, and then obviously being back with the national team. It's always an honour to be called upon to represent my country so I'm thrilled to be back and part of the team."

Spector, who hails from the northern Chicago suburb of Arlington Heights, hopes to add to the 12 caps he has earned on Saturday, when the Americans will hope to build on the 2-0 victory they scored over Mexico in their opening match of the fourth round of CONCACAF qualifying against surprise package El Salvador.

The player, who has made six first-team appearances for West Ham since his return from injury in December, is also targeting a place in Bradley's squad for both next summer's World Cup finals and the FIFA Confederations Cup, which is also being held in South Africa in June.

"I feel like I'm at 100 per cent. I know I've been out for an extended period but I've been working hard to get back to where I am now. I've played nearly two full games for West Ham and have come on in a number of other games and, as far as playing day-in, day-out is concerned, I'm feeling pretty comfortable. Obviously there's always room for improvement, but I'm happy with where I'm at.

"First and foremost team success and pushing for qualification for the World Cup in South Africa. We've also got the Confederations Cup coming up this summer so I'd love to be involved in that. I've been a bit unlucky in terms of injuries coming at the wrong times. Hopefully I can be a bit luckier this time around and work my way into getting a number of appearances for the US team."

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