Hayden Mullins is ready for another "tough game" this weekend as West Ham United welcome Birmingham City looking to make it four straight league wins at home.
After last weekend's disappointment of losing 1-0 to a Wigan Athletic side who are fighting for Premier League survival, Mullins is aware this Saturday's visitors are going to be similarly motivated. Indeed, Birmingham have dropped into the 18th position vacated by Wigan and therefore arrive at the Boleyn Ground equally determined to get out of relegation trouble.
"It is another tough game," the combative midfielder said. "We know it is not going to be easy as you can't underestimate any team in this league. Birmingham are going to make it hard but it is just a case of get on with it. We have to be on the ball because if we miss out again on another three points we could find ourselves with a lot to do."
The 28-year-old is referring to the club's hopes of pushing into the European places, with all concerned knowing victory could see West Ham United jump two spots from tenth and have sixth place in sight. Anything else might allow the clubs below to close the gap further. "We knew Wigan was a chance to push up the league and one we didn't take. We missed out but we are going to try and get back to winning ways on Saturday."
Helping the cause will be the conditions at the Boleyn Ground, with the boggy pitch at the JJB Stadium last weekend making "a massive difference to the football we like to play". Mullins added: "We like to get it down and play. We had to scrap it out which I think suited Wigan a bit better than us." Also in the advantage column this weekend will be strong home support after yet another "brilliant" display by the travelling faithful last time out.
He added: "That is what we need. They are going to help us no end if we are going to push for Europe. That's what we are trying to do and the support has been absolutely brilliant. After Wigan we have regrouped and we are ready to go again."