Kevin Nolan is hoping to return to competitive action when West Ham host QPR next Sunday.

And sources inside the club have claimed the captain was close to returning to the bench last week but failed a later fitness test.

We were told: “He’s made a quicker than expected recovery but failed to force his way back last weekend when failing a test.”

Nolan has watched the  new-look Hammers impress and is determined to win his place back.

He told West Ham TV. “It’s been really tough for me, because I rarely have to sit out, but great watching the lads do so well and everyone at the training ground’s upbeat.

“But I’m in and around the boys now, back training with them and hoping to be back in the next week or so. I’m really looking forward to getting in the mix and trying to get my place back.

The full interview can be seen on West Ham TV or read at www.whufc.com