Yarmolenko blow for Hammers

Andriy Yarmolenko could be out of action for several months following a recent achilles surgery, according to West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini. The 29-year-old, who joined West Ham from Borussia Dortmund this summer, tore his achilles during the Hammers 1-0 defeat to Tottenham last weekend. He is expected to remain on the sidelines for at least six months.

Having experienced a slow start to their 2018/19 Premier League campaign, West Ham enjoyed a positive run of results in September, beating both Everton and Manchester United, and holding Chelsea to a 0-0 draw. One of the key factors in the Hammers' success was the emergence of Andriy Yarmolenko, whom having looked somewhat off the pace in West Ham's opening fixtures, proved himself a value asset, scoring two goals and providing a constant attacking threat for the East London club.

A lot can change in the space of a fortnight however, and West Ham are now facing an uphill battle in their hopes to push themselves into the top half of the Premier League table. The Hammers have lost each of their last two league fixtures, losing 1-0 away to Brighton and 1-0 at home against Tottenham. One of the reasons behind their recent struggles is their ever growing injury list, which currently includes Pedro Obiang, Manuel Lanzini and Jack Wilshere.

The club have now confirmed that Andriy Yarmolenko will also be missing from action for an extended period, as he recovers from an achilles injury.

“It's very disappointing because he was an important player for us. He was one of the players who arrived this season to have more technical players.” said Manuel Pellegrini. “We also have (Manuel) Lanzini and (Jack) Wilshere out so that's three players in same position. It's really a pity and it's very difficult for the team.”

With Yarmolenko missing, Pellegrini could turn his attention towards forward Andy Carrol, who is set to make his return later this month.

“Andy Carroll and Jack Wilshere are still recovering, the same as Lanzini and Carlos Sanchez,” added Pellegrini.”Andy is working sometimes with the squad. He is improving – I hope that he can play the last game before the international break, if we are 100 per cent sure.”

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