Four on list at Hammers

West Ham could have a new manager in place by early next week. Chairman Terry Brown and his directors have sifted through more than 40 applications for the post and have drawn up a short list.

The club are intending to talk to prospective candidates during the next few days and ideally want a new man in place by early next week. That would give him time to work with the squad before West Ham's next match, at home to Reading on 13 September.

Trevor Brooking, who is unbeaten in his two spells as caretaker manager, remains the popular choice but is adamant he doesn't want the job permanently.

The club's supporters want Brooking, who is a non-executive director at the club, to carry on and the senior players are also keen for him to continue.

Brooking himself has serious reservations about taking over as Glenn Roeder's permanent successor, the biggest of which is the possibility that the unique relationship he has with the fans would be jeopardised eventually.

Hammers striker David Connolly says it is unfair to put pressure on Brooking, despite his record of four wins and a draw. Connolly said: "He has done a very good job in very difficult circumstances and the lads - and the coaching staff - have pulled together.