Paintsil: We must beat Hornets

West Ham's John Paintsil has described his side's clash with Watford this weekend as a must-win game.

The Hammers play host to basement boys Watford on Saturday with both sides desperate for the points to boost their survival hopes.

West Ham are five points adrift of safety and Paintsil believes they must take maximum points against Watford.

"I believe we need to win this game at all costs," said Paintsil. "Even a draw would not be good enough.

"We have to focus, to put our heads together and be strong. Watford beat us at home in the FA Cup (fourth round) last month.

"Now we have them again in the Premiership. Both teams are struggling, and it will be a tough match for us."

Paintsil remains confident that West Ham can get themselves out of trouble once they get all their best players fit again.

"I believe that when our major players come back, things will be okay for West Ham," added Paintsil.

"The injury situation means we do not have enough experienced defenders at the moment, and it is costing us."

Paintsil has struggled to break into the starting XI since the arrival of Alan Curbishley, but he is hoping to get a chance to help the side climb away from trouble.

"As for me, I am training hard and training well. I hope the time will come when I get my opportunity," concluded Paintsil.