West Ham injury update: Jarrod Bowen and Alphonse Areola latest news and return dates

West Ham head into their biggest game of the season without star player Jarrod Bowen.

The Hammers on Thursday face Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final looking to become the first team in any competition to beat Xabi Alonso’s hugely impressive side.

An injury to Bowen has been confirmed as the club’s worst nightmare was realised ahead of the huge double-header, while the fitness of first-choice keeper Alphonse Areola also remains in doubt.

Here are the latest West Ham injuries…

Jarrod Bowen

Bowen was forced off early in the second half against Wolves after appearing to injure his hip after a challenge with Wolves midfielder Mario Lemina and has now been ruled out of the Europa League quarter-final first leg.

The England international received on-field treatment but was quickly deemed unable to continue, and went straight down the tunnel. Speaking to reporters after the game, manager David Moyes was hopeful the damage was not significant.

However, scan have revealed more significant damage. Moyes will provide a new update ahead of the game in Germany.

Potential return date: Fulham (h) on Sunday, April 14, 2024

Alphonse Areola

The goalkeeper was forced off during West Ham’s loss to Newcastle in late March and missed both the 1-1 draw with Tottenham and win over Wolves.

Speaking ahead of the trip to Molineux, Moyes said: "Alphonse felt a slight tweak to his groin at St James' Park. We hope he won't be out for too long, but he's not going to be available for the game against Wolves."

Areola added: "On one kick against Newcastle I felt a pain in my groin, and I knew something wasn't right, but I'm doing everything I can to be ready as soon as possible.

"The thing with muscle injuries is that you can't rush back, or you risk making it worse. Hopefully I can recover quickly, and the team can get the right result at Wolves."

Potential return date: Unknown