• Premier League

Carroll's return delayed by stomach virus

ESPN staff
November 5, 2013
Andy Carroll has not played for West Ham this season as he recovers from successive heel injuries © PA Photos
Enlarge

West Ham United and England striker Andy Carroll has suffered another setback in his bid to return to action for the first time this season after picking up a nasty stomach virus.

The former Newcastle and Liverpool forward has not played for West Ham since the club paid £15million to make his loan deal permanent after a successful spell at Upton Park last season.

Back-to-back heel injuries have ruled Carroll out of Sam Allardyce's plans since then. He now looks set to miss his target of returning in time to face Chelsea later this month.

Speaking to the Sun, a club insider said: "Andy is very depressed about the whole thing.

"He is improving but he has had stabbing pains in his abdomen for the past four or five days and an extreme stomach upset.

"It's a cruel blow as he had been making steady progress."

West Ham have failed to score in six of their 10 Premier League games so far this season and are 15th in the table, just two points clear of the relegation zone.

Download ESPN's new UK sport app, a fresh and powerful new way to follow your favourite UK sports news, scores and video.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
ESPN staff Close