Feghouli: ‘Things are looking up and I’m happy here’

West Ham midfielder Sofiane Feghouli declared Tuesday afternoon that his teammates are in a positive vibe after consecutive wins over Crystal Palace and Middlesborough.

The Algerian midfielder, who was not selected by his country for the ongoing African Cup of Nations in Gabon due to a lack of consistent play, has showcased so far in the new year why he was purchased by manager Slaven Bilic in the summer after becoming a star performer for Valencia in La Liga.

And with him finally being played in his preferred position of right attacking midfielder, Feghouli has been a key reason in the Hammers’ two game winning streak.

“The atmosphere is very good,” Feghouli said to WHUFC.com. “Everyone is working very hard at the moment, although we’re always doing that. It was hugely important to win on Saturday against Middlesbrough for our supporters. The whole week at a Club after a win is always very positive. We need to be humble as players though, and recognize there are always areas to work on. We are capable of working and moving even further and we know if we give our all and show our quality, that’s what we can do.”

After a difficult start to his West Ham career, Feghouli had been rumored to leave the club in rapid fashion, a la Simone Zaza. But the 27-year-old has stated firmly his desire to play out his new contract in his new city.

“I think it will still take some time to show my absolute best,” he said. “I know that there is more for me to show to both my teammates and the supporters of the club.”

“Coming to the Premier League, you want to prove yourself and adapt quickly. West Ham have an ambitious project, to be competing in the top half of the Premier League and I have a contract here for three years, so I hope to be doing that.”