West Ham striker Diafra Sakho insists he wants to prove his worth this season and repay co-owner David Sullivan after his summer move.

The 24-year-old joined the Hammers from French outfit Metz for a fee of £4.5million although the move nearly fell through.

Discussions between the club and his agent Mark McKay had begun to slow down while recent reports have also suggested that Queens Park Rangers turned down the chance to sign Sakho, but Sullivan made a move to secure the deal and it has paid off so far.

Sakho has scored five goals in as many games for Sam Allardyce’s side, including one in the 2-0 win over Queens Park Rangers last weekend. He is now hoping to continue his fine start and repay Sullivan for the faith shown in him.

He said: “I have always wanted to play in England and when West Ham came in for me in the summer, I thought that was it.

“But then the deal began to fall through as I think the coach was having doubts and I was resigned to returning to France. Fortunately for me, Mr Sullivan stepped in and said he would be signing me on a permanent deal. It was the chance I needed.

“West Ham gave me the chance and now the coach, Mr Allardyce, believes in me too.

“I’m enjoying it and scoring goals against Liverpool and Manchester United shows I can play at this level. I’m just glad Mr Sullivan put his trust in me.”