Carlton Cole has made it crystal clear he’s no West Ham back number and is ready to scrap it out for a regular starting role for the Irons.

Despite intense competition from Enner Valencia and Mauro Zarate the big man is convinced he has every chance of making a real impact again.

He told the official site: : ““When Andy was out last year, I felt I did a good job in that period of time, so I know I can do that. It’s not a problem for me, it’s just about getting fit.

“I have a great opportunity to get fit and get the games under my belt so I can start the season well.

“We’ve got competition for places and that’s what going’s to spur me on to even do better.”