West Ham United full-back Arthur Masuaku has said that he is ready to play a "great part" in helping his side avoid relegation from the Premier League following a six-match suspension

The 24-year-old has not featured since January, having been handed a hefty ban for spitting at an opponent during his side's 2-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup.

Masuaku returns to a West Ham side that sits 17th in the table and only two points clear of danger, but he is ready to redeem himself by pushing the Hammers over the line.

"It was a difficult time, of course, because I couldn't help the team and with the results we had, it was tough, but now I'm back and I hope I will help the team as much as I can," Masuaku told the club's official website.

"In the beginning, in the first week, I was very disappointed for myself, for the team and the staff and for the fans, then after that you have to move forward because it is life and everyone makes mistakes.

"I had my family behind me and nothing has changed. I am feeling positive. I can play a great part for the team now. That is what I am thinking. I just hope I can help the team and hopefully we can get the three points, because that would be massive for us."

West Ham will host Southampton on Saturday hoping to end a three-match losing streak.