The 31-year-old has been frozen out of the first-team picture by Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola, despite impressing during loan spells at both Birmingham and Wolves last season.

However, his torture could soon be put to an end as he is closing in on another short-term switch.

"It has been well-documented that I am looking to go out on loan and West Ham are more than happy to allow me to do that, so I'm just looking at a few possibilities at the moment," Quashie told skysports.com.

"I need to go out and get myself fit because the reserves don't come close to the level of fitness that is required for the Premier League.

"Hopefully, a loan period will enable me to get back to that level and then doors will start opening for me.

"MK Dons are one of the clubs that have shown an interest in me and if they are the right club for me to join and get some games for, then hopefully something will be sorted this week which allows me to concentrate on playing football again."

The former Scotland international was sidelined for the best part of 16 months, after suffering a freak foot injury in March 2007, but having helped both Birmingham and Wolves seal promotion to the Premier League last season it was thought he may be given a chance at Upton Park this term.

That, however, has not proven to be the case and Quashie admits he is bemused by his continued snub.

"It has been a strange one and I can't really put a finger on it," he added.

"I've done well in every reserve game that I have featured in and the reserve manager has been first class with me, but I don't really understand why I've been cast aside somewhat.

"That is football though and that is the pill that I have had to swallow.

"I've been professional enough to keep working hard and the club has been happy with my progress, so there haven't been any disputes between me and the club."