West Ham midfielder Scott Parker has handed in a transfer request.

The England midfielder did not feature in the win at Nottingham Forest on Sunday and is desperate to return to the Premier League with Spurs his most likely destination.

Parker told the Hammers website: "I have had a fantastic four years at West Ham United and will never forget all the support I have had from the fans and everyone associated with the club.

"The manager and board have tried hard to convince me to stay but at this stage in my career, I need to be playing in the Premier League, especially now that I'm involved with England.

"I hope the fans will understand and respect my decision and I wish the club every success in their fight for promotion this season."