Mark Noble: 'Fans must support players'

West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble has urged the club's fans to get behind the players even if they are not performing to the expected standard, as booing will not improve their play.

The Hammers supporters jeered at full time in the 2-1 win over Hull City on Wednesday night, which was criticised by manager Sam Allardyce, and Noble said that support rather than intimidation is what helps the players to relax.

"More than anyone, I am keen to get the ball down and play, but sometimes it just doesn't happen for you as a team and as individuals, no matter how hard you try," he told BBC Sport.

"Although it wasn't our best performance, we did not fall short on effort and that has been a consistent theme during our recent upturn in form. On behalf of all of the players, I can say that your support really can make a difference.

"We will always perform better when we are feeling relaxed and comfortable - as you would in any job - and I must admit the anxiety from the stands can spill onto the pitch and get into our minds, as much as we try to ignore it."

The win lifted West Ham into 11th in the Premier League.