Alan Curbishley insists West Ham have a squad capable of challenging for a top-six place next season - if they avoid more injury woe.The Hammers splashed out £29million last summer but spent most of the season without any of their big-name arrivals as Craig Bellamy, Kieron Dyer, Freddie Ljungberg, Julien Faubert and Scott Parker suffered a catalogue of injuries.

The Hammers missed their pace, creativity and goals, so Curbishley takes the view that just getting them fit will be like making a handful of new signings.

And he believes West Ham will have a squad capable of challenging for a top-six finish next year.

"All the players missing are the pacey players and the offensive players, players who can unlock a team at home and be more dangerous away from home on the break," said Curbishley.

"We saw it a couple of times, in the game against Reading when we looked dangerous, but we weren't in that position again.

"Lee Bowyer and Matthew Etherington have also been out for a long time, and our leading goalscorers from midfield.

"I know when I do get them all in an XI that we are a quick, offensive side and if we get everyone fit we are in a position to push on. We have a squad that is strong enough."

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