Stephen Hunt today declared he is ready to play a part in Wolves’ crunch game against West Ham on Saturday after making his comeback last night.

The £3m Ireland winger sailed through a planned 45 minutes in the reserves’ 2-1 defeat to Wigan at Molineux.

Hunt was making his first appearance of any kind since February 20 since suffering a serious foot injury at Hull against Wolves at the end of January.

And the 29-year-old insisted he could play some role against the Hammers.

“The foot felt good and I was happy to get 45 minutes,” said Hunt, who underwent surgery exactly six months ago.

“To play 45 minutes was always the plan – I probably could have played for longer.

“I’ve had a few little niggles but thankfully, they felt alright.

“But the real stuff is on Saturday at 3pm – that pressure is what I really enjoy and hopefully I can have a taste of it this weekend then at Chelsea the following week.

“It would be great to play against West Ham – it’s a big game for us after four defeats in a row.

“To play 15-20 minutes on Saturday might not be beyond me. If I’m needed to start the game then I’m sure I could, but it’s down to the manager.

“Sometimes I think you need that adrenalin rush of playing in the first team to get you really going again.

“I’ve been used to playing first-team football and hopefully I’ll be involved.”

Hunt admitted he has some minor discomfort, adding: “I’ve been back in full training for a week to 10 days now and I’ve had a little niggle which has stopped me playing to my maximum.

“It’s getting better and if I’m not involved on Saturday, then hopefully I will be the week after. I’ll be stronger, fitter and better by then.”