EXCLUSIVE! West Ham defender John Pantsil insists that the club can put their problems behind them and become "the team to watch" next season.

The Hammers have recovered some form following their three consecutive 4-0 defeats at the hands of Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur, but remain destined for a mid-table finish in manager Alan Curbishley's first full season in charge.

Ghana international Pantsil, 26, believes that the current campaign has been one of transition for the east London club, and next year they will fulfil their potential.

Speaking after Ghana's international friendly with Mexico at Craven Cottage, Pantsil told Eurosport: "We've had a fresh start this season. (After the top four) I think West Ham will be the team to watch out for next season.

"Motivation is not a problem. We've got a lot of injuries in the team and we've lost a lot of experienced players as well, but those who are playing are showing a lot of character on the pitch.

Long-term injuries to players such as Craig Bellamy, Kieron Dyer and Julien Faubert have affected the side, as well as the loss of Carlos Tevez and Yossi Benayoun to Manchester United and Liverpool respectively.

Those injury problems have forced Curbishley into fielding some of his youth players, such as 18-year-old duo of striker Freddie Sears, who scored the winning goal on his debut against Blackburn Rovers, and defender James Tomkins.

Pantsil added: "We've got more than 40 players in the squad, so anyone can come in. And now we're using the young players from the youth team and they're also doing well and showing character. We are delighted about our performances this season, no matter what."

"It's been fantastic since the start of the season. The boys are fighting for the club and the manager is doing what is necessary to develop the players at the club. We are putting our heads together to do what is necessary."

Tom Williams / Tony Mabert / Eurosport