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." An FA Cup tie against Arsenal may have historical significance, coming 30 years after West Ham beat their north London rivals 1-0 in the 1980 final, but it is not quite the sympathetic draw manager Gianfranco Zola would have liked. The Hammers are hamstrung, with Danny Gabbidon, Mark Noble, Scott Parker and Ilunga all struggling with the same injury, while Carlton Cole is out with knee trouble and Guillermo Franca is suspended. Zola said: "What is most important is we maintain the spirit we have shown recently, that will be the key more than anything else. "We need to adjust a few things but things are improving and we are going to be much better." Zola's squad is down to the bare bones and he would like to bring in new recruits in the January transfer window. But with the debt-ridden club up for sale, Zola's biggest challenge this month will be to keep hold of England stars like Cole and Matthew Upson. "Of course I don't want to lose my players. Actually I would like to do something to improve the situation. We will see what happens and what we can do," said Zola.
