Returning Hitzlsperger inspires Hammers

THOMAS HITZLSPERGER hailed a fantastic night for himself and West Ham after helping fire them to a 5-1 FA Cup win over Burnley on his debut.

The Germany midfielder signed for the Hammers in the summer, but injury has kept him sidelined until last night, when he started the fifth round tie at Upton Park.

Hitzlsperger grabbed the first goal with a trademark left-footed thunderbolt from the edge of the area and the Premier League strugglers went on to enjoy a confidence boosting win.