George McCartney is looking to push for a spot in the West Ham United starting line-up after sitting on the bench on the weekend.
The 32-year old Northern Ireland defender came into the matchday squad following the injury to Winston Reid but did not feature in the 3-1 loss at Norwich City.
After getting himself at least to a substitute position, McCartney is now determined to edge his way into Sam Allardyce's eleven after overcoming various injuries.
"It was nice to be back on the bench but I want to get back to somewhere near where I know I can be and get in the team on merit rather than through injuries," he told West Ham's official website.
"There's a long way to go but I try and stay positive and I'm confident in my own ability.
"I've got to continue to be positive and believe I can get back on the pitch. It hasn't been easy at times, but I'm willing to work hard and hopefully I can get back to somewhere near the level I can play."
