[AMERICANS ABROAD] American Jonathan Spector scored twice for West Ham in a 4-0 English Carling League Cup win over Manchester United, with which he began his pro career at age 17 in 2004.

Spector had seen action in only two games this season, a League Cup win over Oxford and a 3-0 EPL loss to Man United.

Spector, usually a left defender, started in the midfield and opened the scoring in Tuesday’s League Cup quarterfinal with a diving header. He scored West Ham’s second when he pounced on a loose ball and struck from close range. Carlton Cole scored the Hammers’ other two goals over a Man United team resting several regulars.

Spector played eight first-team games for Manchester United, including two Champions League games, before being loaned out to Charlton in 2005-06.

The 24-year-old has made 88 EPL appearances for West Ham but Coach Avram Grant was reportedly looking to unload Spector during the winter transfer period. Media reports have linked Spector to Germany’s FC Cologne.

Spector’s first goal …



Spector’s second goal …