The Socceroo defender only signed for the club in January 2007 but his deal runs out next summer and the West Ham board will be reluctant to let him leave on a free transfer.

Neill has settled well in London and was handed the captain’s armband by Alan Curbishley at the start of last season.


But Neill’s agent Paddy Dominguez recently dismissed reports that he would leave West Ham during the summer.

Dominguez said: “It doesn’t make sense that a manager who brought Lucas to the club and has installed him as captain would look to sell him.

“It would be very strange. Lucas’ relationship with Alan is good and he is relishing the role of captain.”

West Ham midfielder Kieron Dyer is hoping Neill will stay and believes he is the right man to steer the club towards major silverware.

Dyer told the News Of The World: “He is by far the best captain I have ever had. As a player if you have got a problem, he will sort it out. He is a great man.”