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West Ham trio Carroll, Kouyate and Cresswell major doubts for West Brom visit

Major doubt: Andy Carroll: Getty Images
Major doubt: Andy Carroll: Getty Images

Andy Carroll is one of three West Ham players who are major doubts for Saturday’s Premier League match against West Brom.

Carroll, who has been tipped to be included in Gareth Southgate’s next England squad, has scored five goals in his last six matches and his absence would be a big blow for manager Slaven Bilic.

Carroll has been suffering from a groin injury in recent weeks and Bilic said today that he will assess the striker’s fitness tomorrow before making a final decision.

“We have a few players who didn’t train this week — Andy, Cheikou Kouyate and Aaron Cresswell,” said the West Ham manager. “Speaking about Andy, he’s really in good form and he’s been great for us but we don’t want to take a risk with him.

“It’s not something major but it’s similar to the groin pain he felt against Middlesbrough. This is the only week he hasn’t trained with us since he came back from injury but, of course, you have to find a balance, especially with someone like him, with his history.”

With regard to Carroll’s possible selection for England, Bilic said: “It’s always good for the player and us to be called up because it’s the biggest proof they are doing well.”