Slaven Bilic says he is focused only on West Ham's game with Tottenham

By Mark Crellin

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is unconcerned by rumours the club will review his position at the end of the season

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic has downplayed speculation about his future at the London club.

And the Hammers boss says Friday's important Premier League game against title-chasing Tottenham is paramount in his mind at the moment.

The Hammers finished seventh last year as Bilic enjoyed a successful first season at the helm, but the current campaign has been a tougher one for the Croatian boss.

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His team are 15th ahead of Friday's match and Sky Sports News HQ understands that Bilic's position will be reviewed at the end of the season.

However, the manager refused to address his personal circumstances at Friday's media briefing and said: "It's not the time to talk about it, it is not about individuals at the club.

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"I am calm and focused on the next game. The only thing I am thinking about is the game against Spurs."

Bilic was equally circumspect when asked about whether the Hammers are likely to be interested in signing former forward Jermain Defoe, who could be a hot property this summer following Sunderland's relegation.

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"Now is not the time to talk about transfers," said Bilic. "We are talking about them with the scouts and the board.

"It is time to talk about Tottenham."

West Ham are likely to have their hands full on Friday against a Spurs side who are in superb form.

Image: It has been a tricky season for West Ham, who are only seven points clear of the drop zone

The north London outfit have won their last nine in the Premier League and lie second in the standings, four points behind leaders Chelsea with four games to play.

"I have nothing but praise for them," said Bilic. "I'm watching them the whole season and I think, 'how did Chelsea make that gap?'

"Then I remember that one period they (Spurs) were a couple of times without Harry Kane.

"That first one they lost or drew a few games that, if you are challenging for the title, you cannot afford.

"Don't get me wrong, Chelsea deserve to be on top, but Spurs are playing maybe the best football.

"In the last couple of months, every game they win."

However, one point or three would almost certainly take the Hammers out of the relegation equation for sure and Bilic thinks his team are capable of getting a good result.

"They need points, we need points, so it is massive game for us and a massive game for them," he added

"We will try to get the points that will mathematically secure our status.

Image: In-form Tottenham will be at the London Stadium on Friday night

"You don't need extra motivation when you play against Tottenham. Last season's game at Upton Park, when we beat them 1-0, was one of the most electrifying atmospheres.

"It is a big game for us, a big game for the supporters, it is under the lights, which is always a special one, and we are ready for it.

"We are four games unbeaten and have three cleans sheets as well. Our form has improved and we are positive and optimistic."

Watch West Ham v Tottenham on Friday Night Football. Coverage begins on Sky Sports 1 HD at 7pm.

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