Michail Antonio has told Match of the Day magazine that he is backing Dimitri Payet to "pick up where he left off" for West Ham when he returns from international duty.
The France midfielder has endured a difficult start to the season with Slaven Bilic's side, having played just 24 minutes of Premier League football due to injury.
The Hammers have struggled to find a spark during their talisman's absence but Payet is set to return to the fold following the conclusion of the international break.
France boss Didier Deschamps has claimed Payet's injury problems have been solved and the 29-year-old is expected to feature against Watford on Saturday, with Antonio keen to see his colleague get straight up to speed.
“[Dimitri Payet] is just quality. Off the pitch he’s the nicest guy ever, so down to earth, so chilled, always has time for everyone.
"Hopefully he can come back nice and fit and pick up where he left off.
"He takes the mick with some of the boys in training with some of his skills," Antonio added.
West Ham have won just one of their opening three Premier League games and will be determined to pick up all three points against Walter Mazzarri's side, who are yet to record their first victory of the season.
New signings Simone Zaza and Alvaro Arbeloa are also in contention to make their first starts of the season this weekend.
To read the full interview, pick up a copy of Match of the Day Magazine this Tuesday.
