West Ham academy graduate was impressive at Stamford Bridge last Saturday

He’s been out of the picture for eight weeks, but after his excellent performance on Saturday Freddie Sears should get the run of games he deserves.

The academy graduate was dropped immediately after the arrival of Gary O’Neil during the January transfer and FA Cup match against Burnley aside, has not made an appearance since.

Sears had been impressive on the right hand side either as part of a front three or in midfield and his treatment by boss Avram Grant has been puzzling, especially as he possesses what West Ham lack. Pace.

“It’s a bit of a surprise not to have played for eight weeks,” he said. “It’s difficult. Sometimes you’re on the bench and sometimes you are not. I’ve been in and out of the team for the past couple of weeks. The last time I played was against Burnley so it was a bit frustrating on my part.”

He showed his qualities last Saturday and his speed was a useful weapon, as the Hammers’ attempted to counter attack Chelsea. Although the Hammers were beaten 3-0 by the Blues at Stamford Bridge his performance up against Ashley Cole on the right hand side was notable and the England full back must have been impressed after giving the winger his shirt after the match.

“It was hard work. I’m enjoying it and I’m happy to play there. I’m a young boy and can run all day so getting up and down isn’t an issue for me, I’ll give my all playing for the team and to play against someone like Ashley Cole is a privilege,” he said.

“He’s tough to play against but today I think I did alright. I feel that I can stretch teams. The gaffer looks at me as having a bit of pace and I am a young lad and he knows that I have high energy levels and that I will work hard for the team. That is obviously a good thing for me.”

It is also what West Ham need and with tough match against Manchester City this weekend, his involvement will give them something to worry about.

“Chelsea and Man City games are games where you try to nick points and get something from them,” he said.

“Three big games are last three, but we go to Man City full of confidence. I want to play for play for West Ham and give my all for the team

“We have four games to go and I want to play in all of them. I would be lying if I said I didn’t. I feel that I have something to give. The gaffer knows what I can do and how I can help out the team and it would be nice to feel that I can.”