Nigel Pearson insists there are "no quitters" in the Leicester City dressing room as they fight to become only the third side to survive after being bottom of the Premier League at Christmas.
City's 2-0 defeat at West Ham this afternoon, their 12th game without a win, meant that Pearson's side will definitely be at the foot of the table going into their game against Tottenham on Boxing Day.
Only two sides have lifted themselves above the dotted line from that position since the beginning of the Premier League – Sunderland last season and West Brom in 2005.
Pearson, who was assistant manager to Bryan Robson at West Brom that season, said he sees in his players' eyes that they have the belief to achieve it.
"It really is about us making things happen ourselves," said Pearson, following the defeat. "If we hadn't produced performances this season I would be sitting here probably telling you one or two fibs about me believing we can rectify this.
"I look around the dressing room and we have certainly got no one who is giving up any sort of fight.
"I have not seen anyone looking like they are remotely about to quit. That is always very important.
"They are an outstanding group of people and we will keep working until we find the answer."
Like so often this season, City were looking comfortable in general play, creating chances, only to be punished for a glaring defensive error of their own.
Paul Konchesky's woeful back pass, when the ball looked to be going out for a City throw-in, playing in Andy Carroll who raced through to give West Ham the lead.
Stewart Downing double the hosts' advantage after the break before Hammers goalkeeper Adrian pulled off two stunning saves late on to deny substitutes David Nugent and Leonardo Ulloa.
"It is another day in which we have done okay in certain areas, played pretty well, created a few chances, and come away with nothing," said Pearson.
"Unfortunately at the moment, I have had to say that too many times
"Individual mistakes have been costly for us but, ultimately, you have got to score enough goals and we haven't been doing that.
"Their goalkeeper has made three really outstanding saves. We have created situations but have not been able to maximize them.
"The harsh reality is that we are being punished at both ends of the field for mistakes that we make."
