- Premier League
Carroll to undergo ankle surgery
West Ham have been handed a blow as Andy Carroll will miss the start of the season as he is set to undergo surgery on an ankle problem he picked up in training.
Carroll, 25, was already going to miss out on West Ham's pre-season tour of New Zealand. The club stated: "After assessment by the club's medical experts, it was decided to let the England international rest for both remaining games and receive intensive treatment to ensure he is fit for the start of the season. It should be clear that the affected area is not in any way associated with the previous injury he successfully overcame towards the end of last season."
A heel problem ruled the striker out of the first half of the last campaign, and he has struggled to maintain his fitness and form in recent seasons. Co-owner David Gold said Carroll would be sidelined for around four months.
West Ham face Wellington Phoenix and Sydney FC as they prepare for their opening Premier League fixture at home to Tottenham on August 16.
Going under the knife tomorrow morning and absolutely devastated to be missing the start of the season!! pic.twitter.com/kTAYuF0YGB
— Andy Carroll (@AndyTCarroll) July 24, 2014
I'm sorry to inform you that AC has torn ankle ligaments and will have an operation tomorrow. Andy will be back in about 4 months. dg
— David Gold (@davidgold) July 24, 2014