Jonathan Spector is determined not to let the prospect of facing England at the World Cup get in the way of trying to rescue West Ham's season.
The versatile American defender is set to deputise for injured left back Herita Ilunga when the struggling Hammers tackle Arsenal in Sunday's FA Cup third-round tie.
Spector is excited by what this summer's World Cup in South Africa holds in store, particularly after he missed both the 2006 tournament and the 2008 Olympics due to injury.
But Spector, who turns 24 on Sunday, insisted his only focus is on helping West Ham turn around their fortunes after a run of one win in six games.
"I relish the opportunity when I get to play and try to make the most of it. I'm enjoying being part of the team and playing and I am just hoping that results start to change for us," he said.
"I missed out on the World Cup and the Olympics as well, which were certainly disappointments to me. Next summer is in the back of my mind and I'm certainly looking forward to it.
"We have a good challenge and a great opportunity ahead of us. I'm looking forward to it but obviously my sole focus at the moment is on the club."
