Ludo's Challenge

Ludek Miklosko has set Czech compatriot Tomas Repka the ultimate challenge.

Ludo, who is acting as a translator for Tomas until he has mastered the English language, was instrumental in persuading the stopper to uproot his family and swap Florence for London when he pondered on the wisdom of leaving Fiorentina.

And he says: "I think I played maybe 160 or so consecutive games for West Ham but if he breaks my record I will be very happy."

For a centre half, that could be a tall order, but Ludo adds: "It would be nice for him, but I hope at least he can have a few games in a row without a red card."

Tomas was angry with himself after Monday night's defeat against Charlton, reveals Ludo, who says: "He was very disappointed with his mistake for the second goal; he said he didn't know what he tried to do.

"But it was his first mistake in six games, he is a good player and he will learn from that; he said the game is much faster than Italy where they have more time to control the ball.

"But he is enjoying every minute of it here."

Tomas has been contemplating retiring from international football after the criticism he received following his unfair red card against Belgium recently, and Ludo says: "Tomas was very unlucky; the Belgian player just fell down and said he does what he does because he is a professional.

"But I don't think professionals try to get others sent off; he didn't hit him in the face, he just caught his arm.

"He is very disappointed with everything that happened because the Czech Republic didn't qualify for the World Cup; he needs time to leave it and think about it again in a few months."

Ludo also says that David James is fully fit and ready to make his belated Hammers debut, adding: "It is good competition; David is in full training now as he has been for nearly a month and is doing quite well.

"I think it is very important that goalkeepers help each other in training and that is exactly what he and Shaka are doing; it is a good atmosphere between them and they are pushing each other.

"David is 100% fit and has been doing absolutely everything for the last two weeks; he is ready to play."

Talking of the Charlton game, he says: "The defending wasn't the best but it was a cracking game to watch. From our point of view, though, four goals conceded is not what we want."

Ludo also adds that his thoughts are with Craig Forrest, currently undergoing chemotherapy, and he says: "I think Craig is in a good mood and I hope he will join us soon and start training again.

"Steve Bywater has a small crack on his wrist and it is disappointing for him not to be playing as well."