Stewart Downing reveals half-time "rocket" from Sam Allardyce in Stoke City draw

Stewart Downing has revealed how Sam Allardyce gave West Ham United a half-time "rocket" to inspire their comeback against Stoke City on Saturday.

The Hammers trailed by one at the break and then went further behind to Mame Biram Diouf's goal, but responded to earn a 2-2 Premier League draw.

Downing, who created the first of West Ham's goals at the Britannia Stadium before scoring the other, feels that the manner of the result is evidence of how the Londoners have improved this season.

"The manager gave us a rocket a half time, but I'm sure he would be happy with a point at the end of that," he told reporters.

"We would probably have lost that game last season by two or three goals. But if you can pick up points on the road when you are not playing well, that's always a bonus."

The result saw Allardyce's side drop to fifth in the table, but they are level on points with third-placed Manchester City.