Andy Carroll is in line for a surprise return to training next week after responding well to treatment for a hamstring strain, according to a report.
West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce was initially told that the England forward could be sidelined for up to six weeks after he limped off in the game against Fulham less than two weeks ago.
However, this weekend's Premier League clash with Sunderland has now been earmarked for a potential comeback, the Daily Mail reports.
Carroll, who is on a season-long loan from Liverpool, was involved in all three of West Ham's goals in their 3-0 win over Fulham before he hobbled off in the 68th minute.
