Konchesky's Quick Response

PAUL Konchesky insists this weekend's home game against Middlesbrough is a chance for Hammers to respond after the 2-1 defeat at Manchester City.

The 24-year-old full-back believes Alan Pardew's men need a good showing at Upton Park and with Middlesbrough in UEFA Cup action this evening the former Charlton star thinks their midweek exertions will give Hammers the upper-hand.

"They are playing in Europe so hopefully their legs will feel heavy come Sunday," he said. "But they are a very good side with quality players and it's going to be another tough game for us.

"We're in front of our home crowd and that always gives the team a real boost. After two away games it will be nice to get back in front of the Upton Park crowd who always give us fantastic support.

"Hopefully we can respond to that with a strong performance.

"It was tough against Manchester City. They are a great side at home and the table doesn't lie. We just didn't seem to get going and we can't let that happen on Sunday.

"When they scored the first goal we found it hard to deal with. But we've got an opportunity to put it right on Sunday and hopefully we can take it."

Konchesky arrived at Upton Park from the Valley this summer in a £1.5 million deal, and is grateful that Hammers boss Alan Pardew gave him the chance to play for his boyhood club.

"The manager has done very well for us," Paul told the Evening Standard. "He got the Club into the Premiership and has helped us get off to a good start.

"He has been able to bring in the players he wanted and everyone has settled in well.

"It is his team now and it has given the place a lift to know that he will be signing a new contract. Also, the likes of Nigel Reo-Coker and Hayden Mullins have signed new deals recently.

"It shows we are going places."

One place Paul would certainly like to go is Germany next summer for the World Cup Finals. And, after winning his one and only cap for England at Upton Park against Australia in February 2003, Paul is determined for another chance.

"I feel that it is time I got another chance," he admitted. "The World Cup is a long way away but in my heart I think I have a chance to get in there.

"I'd like to think I'd get a game in one of the friendly matches and show the manager what I can do."