Mark Noble believes his impressive performances on the pitch are as a result of him being more settled off it.
The reigning Hammer of the Year has received a host of glowing write-ups for his tireless efforts this season and was named Man of the Match for West Ham United's recent away win at Queens Park Rangers. His fine form has coincided with the announcement that he has signed a new long-term contract with the Hammers, with Noble believing the benefits are there for all to see.
"I think I would put my form down to hard work and believing in myself," Noble said. "I have also signed a new contract which has allowed me to get my head down and focus on playing football."
Despite being touted for a first senior call-up, the former England Uner-21 captain narrowly missed out on selection this time. Therefore, the international break has given the West Ham No16 an opportunity to put in some hard yards at Chadwell Heath as preparation begins for the visit of fellow newly-promoted side Southampton on 20 October.
"We are looking for a win against Southampton in two weeks and there is no reason why we can't get that because our home form has been very good this season.
"If Southampton come to Upton Park and we play anywhere near the same way we did against Arsenal then we will be a hard team to beat."
Although Noble's focus is firmly set on what lies ahead, he admits there is still a slight sense of frustration that West Ham United did not get more from their weekend fixture with Arsenal. The Hammers took the lead through Momo Diame, before Arsenal hit back with three goals to hand the Hammers' only their second home league defeat of 2012.
"When it was 1-1, Momo Diame was on the attack and we were in a really good position but unfortunately for us they broke quickly and made it 2-1.
"Nobby [Kevin Nolan] went close a few times and with a little more luck he could have had a hat-trick. Andy [Carroll] also had a good chance from a corner but it just wasn't to be.
"At the end of the day we still played well and we are still on a good run. We have a good points total for where we are in the season and we are looking forward to the next game."
