West Ham United can ill-afford to drop any more Premiership points against Fulham at Upton Park.

The Hammers are currently third from bottom in England's top-flight and are four points adrift of struggling Wigan.

However, while Alan Curbishley's side have lost their last three league outings, Fulham are unbeaten in their last five Premiership games - although four were draws.

West Ham's recent signing Luis Boa Morte is set to line up against his former club after making his debut in the 3-0 win over Brighton last weekend.

Nigel Quashie is also in line to make his Hammers Premiership debut following his £1.5million switch from West Brom earlier this week.

Striker Dean Ashton handed West Ham a boost this week, although he is still some way off making his eagerly-awaited return to full training.

A groin injury ensures Anton Ferdinand will play no part, while the shoulder injury Lee Bowyer suffered against Reading means he is out.

Fulham have a new signing of their own on show with Clint Dempsey set to make his debut after his work permit was granted by the Home Office this week.

The exciting USA international is likely to play an attacking role on the right-hand side of midfield, although Niclas Jensen has left the club for FC Copenhagen.

Cottagers boss Chris Coleman has plenty of injury worries with Philippe Christanval struggling with an ankle knock and Antti Niemi out recovering from a neck injury.

Jan Lastuvka is set to deputise in the Finland international's absence, while Zat Knight, Jimmy Bullard and Mark Pembridge remain long-term absentees.