JONATHAN Spector is aiming to compete against the best in the world as America compete in the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa.

The 23-year-old defender is the only West Ham player taking part in the competition and is delighted to play in the competition which sees the USA face world champions Italy today (Monday).

He said: "It's obviously setting us up for the World Cup which we still have to qualify for. It's a good practice run for what we can expect."

The Americans took a step closer to qualifying for the competition in South Africa next year after beating Honduras 2-1 in Chicago.

Spector is relishing playing for his country after finishing the domestic season on a high with the Hammers.

The versatile former Manchester United and Charlton Athletic defender is eager to make a name for himself in east London to push forward his international claims, having been frustrated by injury in the past two campaigns and is not worried by the recent takeover affecting his chances of achieving his goals.

"It's a fantastic club, and the supporters are great. Obviously there's a new owner that just took over recently, but I think the management is staying and they have done a great job with the football club."