Republic of Ireland defender Gary Breen is expected to make his full debut for West Ham tonight when they host West Bromwich Albion at Upton Park.
Breen joined the London club from Coventry after the World Cup finals in June but, so far, has only featured from the substitutes bench.
Manager Glenn Roeder has seen his side leak eight goals in three league games and believes Breen will offer more protection in defence.
Breen, who played in Ireland's 4-2 defeat in Russia at the weekend, is expected to replace Scottish international Christian Dailly.
"I had a video of the game against Russia on my desk on Monday morning and Gary told me it was X-rated," said Roeder.
"He said I shouldn't bother to watch it, but what I will take out of it is that he is now physically fit and he is ready.
"David James has conceded eight goals so far this season for us and you couldn't blame him for one of them. People have lost concentration at vital times and he deserves better protection.
PA