West Ham United striker Andy Carroll has revealed that he is pleased to be back in action after spending an "annoying" spell on the sidelines through injury.

The former Newcastle United forward has been unable to play for the Hammers recently due to an ankle injury, but made his return during the London club's 0-0 stalemate with Aston Villa on Saturday.

"It is a great feeling to be back out on the pitch. It took a long time, a lot of hard work and I have to give credit to all of the medical staff for getting me back fit," said Carroll, according to ITV.com.

"I had to make sure it was 100% before I started doing anything. I had a couple of weeks where I could not do anything, even go to the gym. With me being [an] active [person], that was more annoying than anything.

"[After I came on] I had a couple of chances and was unlucky with the one when the keeper made a great save. Now I am back with my first bit of football, so going forwards I am going to be champing at the bit."

West Ham currently occupy fourth position in the Premier League table.