WEST HAM striker Zavon Hines is relishing the prospect of taking on Manchester United at Upton Park this Saturday.

The 20-year-old academy graduate is likely to be thrust into the spotlight against the defending Premier League champions, as Carlton Cole faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering suspected ligament damage in his knee in a clash with Burnley keeper Brian Jensen on Saturday.

Cole came back on to the field and scored the Hammers' third goal from the spot before he was substituted at half-time, Hines coming on in his place.

The youngster enjoyed a lively cameo, winning the free-kick that led to Guillermo Franco's headed fourth goal, while he was also brought down by defender Steven Caldwell as he raced through on goal late on.

With Cole out, Hines will be asked to play a more active role, rather than the odd appearance from the bench, and he is likely to be paired with Franco in attack when United come to town this weekend.

It is a prospect he claims does not faze him. “I'm definitely looking forward to playing Manchester United, it doesn’t matter who you play. When Arsenal came here we were really up for it and came back from 2-0 down. It will be the same against United. I'm happy to take on anyone,” said the confident striker.

He insists he has learned a lot from training day in day out with the likes of Cole and Franco, and he says that experience will help his development as a footballer.

“They’re both smart players (Cole and Franco). They’re both different in a lot of ways and are good at what they do. Learning from them helps my game a lot.”

Hines admits he is still pinching himself at having the chance to play in front of 30,000 adoring fans and is keen to show them what he is capable of.

“Every time I come on I feel happy because not a lot of people get into my position,” he added. “Playing for West Ham is a big thing for me. Every time I play I get more confidence and I’m just trying to do my best.”

West Ham will be without another of their key players for the visit of the champions, as defender Matthew Upson is still struggling with a hamstring injury.

That is likely to see young centre-half Manuel Da Costa and Danny Gabbidon continue their partnership together in the middle. The pair impressed for the majority of the game against Burnley last week, but several lapses in concentration allowed the Clarets to score three times in the last 20 minutes. Similar mistakes will have to be avoided if the Hammers are to take anything from the game on Saturday.