West Ham United boss David Moyes has acknowledged that Marko Arnautovic has made "a big difference" to the club's Premier League campaign.
Arnautovic endured a slow start to life in East London, but the Austrian winger has now contributed nine goals and three assists in 24 top-flight outings this season.
The attacker has flourished in a free role given to him by Moyes, but the Scot has said that the summer signing has also produced his fair share of work for the team.
At a press conference, the 54-year-old told reporters: "He's always had the ability. We've given him a licence to go and do what he does. He's shown individual quality, but he's worked for the team as well.
"He's an important member of the team. He's been excellent and his goals have made a big difference."
West Ham head into Sunday's Premier League fixture with Chelsea sitting five points above the relegation zone.
Darren Plant
