WEST Ham boss Alan Curbishley has defended his formation and tactics following back to back 4-0 defeats.

The Irons were given a harsh lesson in clinincal finishing by Chelsea on Saturday, while Liverpool dished out a masterclass in free-flowing football on Wednesday night.

In both contests, Curbishley opted for a lone striker system which backfired in dramatic fashion.

The Hammers offered very little in terms in attack and failed to produce consistent pass-and-move football.

And the fans let the boss know exactly what they thought by venting their frustrations at Anfield.

But Curbishley shrugged off the criticism, saying: "They (the fans) feel that 4-3-3 or 4-5-1 is a bit negative but as I've said on plenty of occassions, it suits certain people when you play like that.

"That's how Liverpool played. It's very difficult when you play against the top sides because they've got players that can change a game in an instant.

"It's also been the personnel that's been available and fit personnel. I've had to do what I think is right for the club.

"The club is sitting tenth and there a few other clubs that would like to be sitting there."

However, he did concede that the Hammers were not good enough to trouble either the Blues or the Reds.

And he revealed that the squad held a meeting after Wednesday's game to discuss where it had gone wrong.

"It's the first time they've let themselves down this season, in the last four days, and we're disappointed with it and for everyeone connected with the club," he said.

"I thought we looked leggy and tired (against Liverpool) and I didn't think we had the application that has been there in the last couple of weeks.

"We did have a discussion about why we think it hasn't happened and I've got to see if I get a response against Spurs on Sunday."

And he has no doubts that his players will take on board what was said, adding: "I've got a good bunch of lads.

"We find ourselves in a situation where if we can finish the season strongly then it bodes well for next year.

"We've got these games left and we don't want to drift."