West Ham United defender Guy Demel has told his teammates to "stay strong" as they fight to preserve their Premier League status.

The Hammers are just one point above the relegation zone following Saturday's 3-1 defeat against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Next up for West Ham in their fight for survival is a home fixture against title challengers Arsenal on Boxing Day.

"It is not easy," Demel told the club's official website. "We are having tough times this season but we must just stay strong to change our position in the league as we need points and have to keep working hard to do this."

West Ham have failed to win any of their last four games in the Premier League.