Andy Carroll targets West Ham's clash with Southampton for return

Andy Carroll is targeting a return from his hamstring injury earlier than originally expected, according to Sky sources.

The West Ham forward was ruled out for a month after suffering the problem in the 3-1 victory over Bournemouth last week. 

Carroll underwent a scan on the injury last Thursday and West Ham subsequently confirmed they expected to be without the 27-year-old until mid-February.

Carroll's injury timeline

Here we take a look at his catalogue of recent complaints…

However, Sky sources understand Carroll is targeting a return against Southampton on Monday Night Football on February 8 - live on Sky Sports 1 HD.  

Carroll, who was absent for Saturday's 2-1 defeat at former club Newcastle, will miss the Premier League matches with Manchester City and Aston Villa along with the FA Cup fourth-round tie against either Exeter City or Liverpool on January 30. 

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