Bilic: Carroll return a boost for West Ham

Cape Town - West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has backed striker Andy Carroll to help improve the team's goal threat as the season progresses.

Carroll was sidelined for four months with a hip injury, but made his return to the Irons' starting lineup for the 2-0 win against Huddersfield Town, before a second start at West Brom in a 0-0 draw on Saturday. 

Bilic, who is under pressure already after losing three of his first five Premier League games this season, is pleased to have the 28-year-old back in action and believes he will improve the team going forward.

"This was his second game and he looks fit and he looks competitive and the quality will come through the games," Bilic told the club's website.

"It's a big boost for us and long may it continue. It is very important for him to get the games under his belt. He looks good now, touch wood."