Family affair for Tomkins

James Tomkins is planning to do his family proud in Saturday's Premier League fixture against Sunderland at the Boleyn Ground.

The England Under-20 star, who celebrated his 20th birthday last Sunday, has been in imperious form in the Hammers' last four matches and is eager to help Gianfranco Zola's team extend their unbeaten run to five league matches against the Black Cats.

In doing so, Tomkins hopes to repay the faith and support his family have shown in him throughout his rapidly flourishing career.

"I'm close to my family and they always tell me the same - that it's important to stay focused," said Tomkins. "They are a massive influence on me. I've got my parents, my brothers and my friends who support me. It's not about getting big-headed. I feel like I'm still young and haven't achieved anything yet."

West Ham could rise above Wigan Athletic into seventh place with a win over Ricky Sbragia's team, completing the club's third league double of the season in the process and boosting their hopes of securing a spot in next season's UEFA Europa League.

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