South African striker Benni McCarthy is determined to prove his worth at West Ham United, having struggled during his first few months at Upton Park.

The 32-year-old made just five appearances for the Hammers following his arrival from Blackburn Rovers in January, being hampered by injury and a lack of match fitness.

McCarthy is already back in training and eager to improve, telling the Epping Forest Guardian:"I am very determined and that is why I decided to come back earlier.

"I wanted to make a fresh start. What I couldn't do then, I want to be able to do now. I still have loads to prove to the West Ham fans.

"For me, I am like a new player coming in, because last season I am writing off.

"The injury is completely fine and the weight is back to normal. I have been following my programme since the end of the season.

"It is the first time that something like this has happened to me and I need to make sure it doesn't happen again.

"I have been training hard for two weeks now and it is all off my own back."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email