THE unheralded Carl Fletcher has been a quietly influential figure in West Ham's recent upturn.

The midfielder's stoppage time header against Cardiff launched the team on a three-match winning streak.

And his diligent efforts in the centre of the park have earned him praise from manager Alan Pardew, who has described the 24-year-old as the team's best performer in the new year.

But the Welsh international insists he is still learning his trade at a higher level after stepping up from AFC Bournemouth in September.

"It's very competitive at this level," he said. "I've got to just go out there and do the best I can, while trying to improve my own performances."