West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says he has becoming increasingly frustrated with Andy Carroll’s injury situation.
The 28 year old has not played since picking up a groin injury in the 2-2 draw with Sunderland in mid April, and the Croatian says that although he still wants Carroll in the team, he finds it difficult to have a player in the squad he can’t count on. He told his pre-match press conference today (quotes via Skysports.com)
“Andy is kind of a player that has such a big impact on our game that we won’t give up on him. Especially now, as this has nothing to do with lifestyle or not being committed enough.”
“He works really hard, it was bad luck and, as I said, I will never give up on him. Andy is a player that has such a big impact on our game that we won’t give up on him. On the other hand, it is no good having a player whose name you put down first, second or third and can’t rely on him.”
The adductor strain was picked up when Carroll miskicked a ball that led to Andre Ayew’s opening goal against the Black Cats. Since then Bilic has told the media that he expected the player to be back for the games against Stoke, Tottenham and Liverpool but on each occasion the striker has failed to prove his fitness.
It seems from his comments, Bilic is almost certainly thinking of replacing Carroll as the club’s first choice striker next season, although that doesn’t necessarily mean he will be sold. Chelsea’s Michy Batshuayi and Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge, who has his own injury problems, are believed to be West Ham’s primary summer targets for attacking positions.
