David Gold is convinced that Andy Carroll is set to thrive on the competition provided by Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho when he returns to action.

That now looks likely to be around the middle of November with the striker already running and preparing to start kicking balls next week.

After that he can look forward to rejoining the first team squad , reserve team games and a return to first team action.

But’s not going to be a cakewalk slipping back into the new look Irons team where Valencia and Sakho look to have settled in double quick time.

Gold – speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh – said: “I believe we will have a player back who has been sorted…all his problems will be behind him.

“The plantar fascia injury is now totally understood by our medics maintained and he has had surgery on the  loose ankle – a problem suffered by many footballers.

He added: “Andy know the competition he faces and will thrive on it. These are exciting times for him and everybody else. This  is a really good squad.”

Sam Allardyce has this week spoken of the importance that Carroll suffers no more long term injuries and that he keeps himself in tip top condition.

And Gold saying: “It’s up to every player to keep himself in good shape and I’m sure Andy will do so – he’s a professional who wants to give everything to the cause.

“I know too that he’s desperate to get back into the England team and the pressure for places at the club can only be good for him on that front. Exciting times for us all.”