Sam Allardyce: 'Carlton Cole may keep Andy Carroll out'

Sam Allardyce has said that Andy Carroll is not guaranteed a place in West Ham United's starting lineup when he returns from injury.

The Hammers boss has been impressed with Carlton Cole, who has come into the side following Carroll's knee injury.

Allardyce told Sky Sports News: "Carlton has contributed well. He has not played quite as much as he'd wanted to but, when he has got the chance, he's done the business.

"We now need him to continue that. With Andy out for a number of weeks, Carlton can establish himself in the team and keep his place. It'll be Andy's problem to get back in.

"In fact if Carlton's playing that well when Andy gets back, it's nearly impossible for me to leave him out."

The Liverpool striker, who is on a season-long loan at West Ham, is expected to be out until mid-January.

West Ham face West Bromwich Albion tomorrow.