Andy Carroll is edging his way back to fitness following his latest injury problems.

The 29-year-old striker, who played one pre-season friendly before undergoing an ankle operation, is back running as he steps up his recovery but he has yet to return to full training.

Carroll has been dogged by injuries since he joined West Ham in 2013 on a six-year contract for a then club-record fee of £15million. Last season he made just 18 appearances, scoring three goals.

West Ham, mindful of his past injury record, are determined not to rush him back into action too soon.

The Carabao Cup tie against Tottenham, scheduled for October 31, has been earmarked as a possible return date for Carroll but even that may be too soon.

West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini wants to ensure that the former England international is fully fit before bringing him back into the fold and he has plenty of other striking options available.

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Marko Arnautovic, who has scored four goals in six Premier League appearances this season, is his first-choice forward, while other contenders include Michail Antonio, Lucas Perez and Javier Hernandez.

Hernandez has been sidelined with a bout of glandular fever in recent weeks but has returned to full training and is in contention for a place in Pellegrini’s squad for Friday's Premier League clash at Brighton.