Foster eyes better result on return to West Ham

Stephen Foster will never forget Barnsley's cup run in 2008 when they made a mockery of Liverpool and Chelsea's big-four status en route to a Wembley semi-final against Cardiff City. The men from Oakwell start all over again at West Ham tomorrow, hoping to add another Premier League scalp to their growing reputation.

"I've still got the memories of that great run," said Foster, who was in his first season at the club when they came within 90 minutes of an FA Cup final.

"It was a long time ago – there's been a lot of changes and this is a different dressing room now.

"The memories, though, will live with me forever and it's nice to have those memories when you're coming towards the end of your career.

"We beat a couple of Premier League teams – it'd be nice to go to West Ham and beat another.

"It'll be hard work but we are a good team and it will be interesting to see how we do."

Success in the FA Cup has not been as forthcoming since that famous run in 2008, with the Reds knocked out at the first hurdle in each of the last two years; at Scunthorpe last season and at West Ham 12 months earlier.

Back at Upton Park tomorrow, Foster is confident the lessons learned from that 3-0 defeat two years ago will stand them in good stead.

"We played quite well on the day," recalled Foster, whose team go into the fixture as underdogs but in stronger form than their Premier League hosts.

"We passed the ball well and caused them a few problems, then switched off for a few seconds really.

"That's all it takes against Premier League opposition so it's important you keep your concentration.

"Last time we played against them, they did at least allow us more time on the ball so you've got to try and ensure that you use it wisely.

"Carlton Cole was a handful and Scott Parker is a quality leader.

"It's always nice to go and play in such atmospheres.

"It's a nice distraction from the league to be able to go out and pitch ourselves against a Premier League team."

Reds manager Mark Robins yesterday said the club had still to receive an offer for sought-after winger Adam Hamill.

The former Liverpool man, who has 18 months left on his contract, has been linked with a move to either Wolves and Blackpool.

Liam Dickinson has joined Rochdale on loan until the end of the season.