GEORGE McCartney has pledged his future to West Ham by insisting he is not interested in a return to former club Sunderland. The Hammers turned down Sunderland s £4.5million bid for the Northern Ireland international this week but McCartney remains a targ

GEORGE McCartney has pledged his future to West Ham by insisting he is not interested in a return to former club Sunderland.

The Hammers turned down Sunderland's £4.5million bid for the Northern Ireland international this week but McCartney remains a target for the Black Cats.

The 27-year-old, who started his career on Wearside, joined the Hammers in a £1.6m deal in 2006 and was one of the most consistent performers at Upton Park last season.

Defender McCartney finished as runner-up in the club's player of the year award after starting every game of the season.

And he has revealed that he is happy to remain at the club, despite being flattered by Sunderland's approach.

He said: "I would like to stay at West Ham. I have no desire to leave.

"When clubs show an interest in you it is flattering but I have enjoyed my time at West Ham and I have played in every league game for them since February last year.

"It's really up to the two clubs and what West Ham want to see happen. If they choose to sell me then it's up to both clubs to agree a fee and we'll see if that happens but I have no desire to move.

"I haven't really given the thought of going back to Sunderland much consideration because I am still a West Ham player.

"I had a lot of good times there but it was time for me to move on and I embarked on a new challenge. In football you never say never but at the minute I can't say what will happen to me."

Despite McCartney's show of loyalty, Sunderland have not given up hope of signing the player and believe West Ham's interest in Reading defender Nicky Shorey could yet open the way for a move.

The Hammers had a £4m bid for Shorey rejected at the beginning of last season and were again linked with the England international during the January transfer window.

Shorey has since been linked with a move to Portsmouth following Reading's relegation to the Championship and is said to be available for just £3m.

Sunderland have previously shown an interest in West Ham striker Carlton Cole.