West Ham United midfielder Stewart Downing has insisted that he is pleased with the team's 1-1 draw at Sunderland.

The Hammers came away from the Stadium of Light with a point on Saturday after Downing's third goal of the season had cancelled out Jordi Gomez's opener.

Despite failing to make it four consecutive wins in the Premier League, Downing believes that West Ham can be proud of their efforts against the Black Cats.

"We had a tough week, but we managed to get the maximum nine points out of nine, so this point was a bonus for us from a really tough game," he told the club's official website.

"The manager is obviously pleased with us, but he is keeping us on our toes because the competition for places is driving us on. One bad performance and you're out and you could be out for weeks.

"I think it breeds a lot of confidence in the team. I'm sure the manager is very pleased at the moment because he has a lot to pick from, but we're making it easier for him because we keep winning games and getting back-to-back wins."

West Ham are back in action this Saturday when they travel to Leicester City in the league.