West Ham forward Carlos Tevez has stopped learning English because he does not know where he will be playing next season.

The Argentina striker has become a cult figure at Upton Park despite the controversy surrounding his transfer and the club's current relegation scrap.

The Hammers need a point in their final game of the season at Manchester United on Sunday to make sure they survive the drop after a fabulous run of form, inspired by the 23-year-old, which has seen them win six of their last eight matches.

Speculation continues as to where he will play next season with clubs in England and overseas said to be interested. And Tevez has given a clear indication his future is in the balance.

"I have stopped learning English as I don't know where I am going to end up next season," he told reporters.  "But yes, it was hard to settle (in England).

"The language is an issue - and I will learn English if I stay in this league - and, of course, the football here is different compared to Brazil or Argentina. In my opinion, it's the most difficult competition in the world. That may be why so few people make it over here.

"Every Saturday you get kicked and you end up going home with marks all over your body. They hit you hard, they hit you everywhere - Premiership defenders are very strong individuals.

"And the referees allow a lot. They don't interrupt the game as much as they do elsewhere. But you know what? I don't mind all that, it makes me a better player, a stronger player."  PA