Jack Collison has handed West Ham United a timely injury boost by returning to full training for the first time this season.

The Welsh international underwent knee surgery this summer to try to correct an ongoing problem.

Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has been hit by injuries to key players Andy Carroll and Mohamed Diame in the fortnight.

Collison has insisted that he can put his injury woes behind him to help the Hammers continue their push to finish in the top half in the Premier League.

He told The Sun: "It's been frustrating. Just because it has been my knee injured, everyone has jumped to the conclusion that I'm walking wounded and will never be the same again.

"That's not true. I've had surgery but I'll back as strong as ever and I'm desperate to play in the Prem again.

"It's been a nightmare not being able to help the lads. My knee will have to be managed to some extent but it won't make me any less of a player."

The 24-year-old reportedly has an outside chance of making the West Ham squad to face West Bromwich Albion this Sunday.