West Ham lose Cole for two weeks

West Ham and England striker Carlton Cole has been sidelined for around two weeks after picking up an ankle sprain against Middlesbrough on Saturday.

Cole, 25, had been in terrific form for the Hammers leading up to the injury, at one point netting five goals in five league appearances, which subsequently led to an England debut against Spain last Wednesday.

The former Chelsea striker will sit out clashes away to Bolton and at home to Man City having had to have been withdrawn after 33 minutes in the 1-1 FA Cup draw with Boro a few days ago.

It had been initially been feared that Cole may have suffered a fracture to his ankle, but the club denied this, saying:
‘A positive X-ray on Sunday showed no fracture and, ahead of an MRI scan, it is hoped the sprain could lead to only a two-week absence.’

With Dean Ashton ruled out for the season, this leaves West Ham very light in striking options for the forthcoming fixtures. Surely David Di Michele will deputise, but it remains uncertain who will pair up with the Italian striker in attack.