West Ham United defender Winston Reid has insisted that the team deserve their impressive start to the season.

The Hammers currently sit in fifth place in the Premier League table thanks to eight wins from their opening 15 games of the campaign.

While he admits that they have had their share of luck, Reid believes that West Ham are worthy of their lofty position in the standings.

"We've had a bit of luck on occasions, which every team needs, but for the vast majority of it we have earned it and done well," the New Zealand international told the club's official website.

"Everyone has done well this season and hit the ground running. When you bring new players in, it normally takes them a little time to settle in, but everyone has done well and the rest of the squad has improved since last year."

West Ham can make it four consecutive wins in the Premier League today when they face Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.