Demel targets win against Chelsea

West Ham defender Guy Demel has hailed his side’s performance in Wednesday’s 1-0 loss to Manchester United.

Sam Allardyce’s men went down to a first-minute Robin van Persie strike but largely restricted the hosts’ chances and came close to nicking a goal themselves.

And the 31-year-old believes the east London side can go one better against Chelsea on Saturday if they maintain the same level of performance.

“If we play like that against Chelsea and are more clever in front of goal, we have a chance to win the game,” Demel told the club’s website.

“Chelsea are a similar team to Manchester United, but they were worried last night. You couldn’t hear their fans. At home this weekend I think we will push forward more.

“We don’t need to hide because we have an opportunity to win the game.”

Allardyce was forced to call on several academy players for the trip to Old Trafford due to a spate of injuries but has received a boost ahead of the clash with Chelsea.

“We have been stretched for a while,” Allardyce told reporters.

“My players ran their hearts out to stay in the game and we did put fresh legs on but after those we used, we are into the kids.

“At least Mark Noble is back for Saturday, which is important because we are tired.”