• Premier League

West Ham to launch Carroll appeal

ESPN staff
February 3, 2014
Carroll's red card overshadowed an impressive win for West Ham © Getty Images
Enlarge

Sam Allardyce has confirmed the club will be launching an appeal against Andy Carroll's red card from West Ham's 2-0 victory over Swansea City.

Carroll - who has only just returned to fitness following a lengthy injury layoff - was given his marching orders by Howard Webb after supposedly catching Chico Flores with an elbow, though replays later showed contact was minimal.

A ban would be a huge blow for West Ham and Allardyce, who has spoken at great length about the importance of Carroll in the club's survival bid.

The England striker played a crucial role in both Kevin Nolan goals as West Ham recorded an impressive win over the Welsh outfit, giving the Hammers an attacking option they have sorely lacked in his absence.

Writing in an open e-mail to fans, Allardyce confirmed the club is launching an appeal.

"It was great to have them [Carroll and Kevin Nolan] back together and the big thing now is, can we keep them together after that unfortunate incident with Andy getting a red card?" he said.

"All I can say at this stage is that we will be appealing it."

Carroll stands to receive a three-match ban if the decision is not overturned. West Ham have until 1pm on Tuesday 4 to submit their evidence.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
ESPN staff Close