Clarke calls for big finish

Steve Clarke has urged his West Ham United players to end their Austrian training camp on a high with victory over Slovenian side ND Mura 05 on Thursday.

The match, which kicks off at 6pm local time at the Fazanerija stadium in Murska Sobota, will be the squad's final commitment before they fly back to England.

West Ham United drew 1-1 with Turkish Super Lig outfit Bursaspor on Wednesday evening, with Kieron Dyer scoring the Hammers' goal. First-team coach Clarke was pleased with the display in what was a competitive encounter, but expects Thursday's clash to be no less of a challenge for a much-changed West Ham side.

Speaking to WHUTV, he said: "Most of those who weren't involved in the match against Bursaspor will be involved in tonight's game.

"We are up against a Slovenian side, which on paper is a slightly easier test, but in reality, no game is easy and the players will look to be ready for the challenge that brings. The idea was to finish with two matches and then we have a couple of days off before travelling to China (for the Barclays Asia Trophy on Sunday).

Reflecting on Wednesday's game, Clarke was delighted to see Dyer get on the scoresheet for the first time in a West Ham shirt.

"I thought it was a good workout for us, it was very hot out there but I thought we started very well and certainly controlled the game in the first half," he said.

"In the second half, changes were made and that automatically means the game doesn't have the same level of intensity. The big plus was no injuries and while we can be a little disappointed with the goal we let in, it's something we can keep working on

"It was good to see Kieron score. He has been working hard, as have all the players here. He likes to get forward and join in the attack. It was a great lay-off from Coley and a great finish from Kieron."

To see Clarke's interview with WHUTV in full. Click here