Carroll could return against Chelsea, says Bilic

Slaven Bilic says Andy Carroll could return for West Ham in Monday’s derby against Chelsea.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Hammers boss Bilic dismissed reports the east London club had attempted to sell Carroll to Chinese sides.

The injury-plagued striker has not played for a month and has made just 11 Premier League appearances this season.

But Bilic said: “Andy Carroll has been in training and I am optimistic of him playing against Chelsea.

“He’s one of our best players and we want to keep him. We wouldn’t want to sell Andy to China.

“You know how much I rate him. He is one of our best players and we want to keep him. The club didn’t try to sell him.”