Andy Carroll close to West Ham United return?

Forward Andy Carroll has reportedly been pencilled in to return to the West Ham United squad next week.

In January, Carroll sustained a fractured ankle and it had appeared that the 29-year-old would be sidelined for the rest of the season.

However, according to The Mirror, Carroll could feature on the bench when the Hammers face Stoke City at the London Stadium on Monday night.

The England international has only scored two goals in 12 Premier League appearances this season, but the player's return would come at a time when his club are looking to remain in the top flight.

With half-a-dozen matches remaining, West Ham sit six points clear of the relegation zone.