by Greg Seltzer for Soccer365

Recovering West Ham United defender Jonathan Spector has been given a real boost by the fresh three-year contract extension he inked with the Irons earlier this week.

The U.S. international has made 56 Hammers appearances across all competitions since arriving from Manchester United in the summer of 2006.

"There is always a sense of relief and happiness when a new contract is agreed," Spector told Soccer365. "I have enjoyed my time at West Ham, and am very happy that I have the opportunity to continue to play for such a good club."

Making the gesture even more rewarding, the Hammers re-signed the Chicago native as he enters the final stages of recovery from a hip injury that has kept him out since April.

"I appreciate the vote of confidence from the club," stated Spector, who is slowly readying himself for match action.

"I worked hard while I was in the States during my rehabilitation, and to say I'm looking forward to playing again would be an understatement."
 
Fourteenth place West Ham get back to work Sunday at Sunderland, while the American's next opportunity for an injury return arrives Tuesday when the Reserves host Portsmouth.

Soccer365 reporter Greg Seltzer blogs daily over at No Short Corners.

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