CHRISTIAN Dailly believes the only hangover' West Ham will have from the FA Cup final is one of a deeper hunger to do even better next year, writes Laura Burkin.

The Scottish international said that the experience gained by the squad, not only from the final against Liverpool but from the season as a whole, could lead only to further success next season and beyond.

He told the Guardian: "I know that people often say after a defeat that we'll go one better next time.

"And even after success, which we have had this season overall, we can only get better.

"You have to accept defeat with the wins and the positive you take from such things is that it makes you stronger. We've got a good little squad here and I certainly don't think there will be a negative hangover at all from the final.

"The players can be proud of what they have done and take that to another level.

"Things take time and the younger boys here are still learning, but they have shown in a short time what they can do."

The defender, one of Alan Pardew's senior members of the Hammers squad, battled back from an injury that threatened to keep him out of Hammer's finale to the season.

But the tough Scot was back in the team and played a part just like he did last season when the Hammers won promotion. And he is relishing playing a part in whatever way he can as part of a team that he said has a good chance of winning honours before long.

He said: "I think the team stood out this year and while people might say there's pressure to repeat this and do even better, I think the lads will thrive on that.

"We've played under pressure before so we're used to it in a way, but it's the belief in what we all think this team is capable of that will get us through any pressure.

"We've got a young and vibrant team that has more than a decent chance of reaching another Cup final and doing really well again in the league.

"I know that's never easy but we will have a break now, enjoy the summer and can definitely look forward to next season."