Collison backs Carroll, Cole

West Ham midfielder Jack Collison has backed forward duo Andy Carroll and Carlton Cole to help the club climb the Premier League table.

The 25-year-old was delighted to see Carroll return against Cardiff City on Saturday as the striker made his first appearance for the club since permanently joining from Liverpool after heel and foot injuries.

The Wales international also praised Cole, who scored the opener in West Ham’s 2-0 triumph at the Cardiff City Stadium.

“The big man (Carroll) has been working so hard to get fit, so it’s great for him to be back out on the pitch and well done to him,” Collison told the club’s official website.

“Now he can build on what he did at Cardiff.

“There were a couple of dodgy touches from him, but it was a fantastic ball for the last goal (scored by Mark Noble) and we’re all happy to get him back.

“Carlton Cole did really well for us again on Saturday. He got another goal and that’s four for us now. It’s great to have him in good form as well.”

West Ham sit 17th in the Premier League table and host Newcastle United on Saturday.