WEST Ham legend Paolo Di Canio believes the Irons have performed well to overcome a crippling injury crisis and secure a place inside the Premier League's top-half.

The Hammers will end the season in 10th place if Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United fail to win their final two fixtures.

And Di Canio, who emerged as a cult hero during his four seasons at Upton Park, claimed manager Alan Curbishley and his players deserve credit for steering the club clear of a repeat of last season's relegation battle.

The Italian also labelled Curbishley, who he played under at Charlton Athletic in 2003/04, as "one of the best" managers in the Premier League.

"Every season I follow West Ham in particular this season they did well because if you think they had a lot of injuries this year," Di Canio, who returned to the Boleyn Ground for Saturday's 2-2 draw with Newcastle United, told WHUTV.

"I think they made a good job but of course I hope for the future that this club can give more satisfaction to the fans.

"I could not imagine this response from the people. I keep West Ham fans in my heart and I will do forever."

Di Canio also spoke of his excitement about the emergence of homegrown youngsters Freddie Sears and James Tomkins during the latter part of this season.

But the 39-year-old, who often courted controversy for his emotional style of play, warned the pair to keep their minds focussed on their football if they were to enjoy successful careers.

"They are the future of this club," he observed.

"They must grow up with the passion and must remember everything they do they have to do professionally and have to give even more for these fans.

"They are absolutely fantastic. They follow the club during the season even when the team don't play well."