West Ham medics are hopeful that Alex Song will be fit to return to action for the Third Round FA Cup replay against Everton on Tuesday evening.

The player has been carrying a viral infection since his trip to Africa where he ended his international career.

He had hoped to play at Swansea yesterday but was finally ruled out after failing to completely recover from the ‘bug.’

A club source told ClaretandHugh earlier this afternoon (Sun): “These viral things have to run their course but he’s feeling better and we are hopeful he will make it for the Everton match.

“It is impossible to be 100 per cent sure  but the signs are good and he will be very keen to become involved again.

“It could have been a stressful week with the international decision and now this so it will be great for him to put everything behind him and start playing football again.”