Two More Finished

Nigel Winterburn and John Moncur are the latest players to be ruled out for the rest of the campaign.

Their names join those of Ian Pearce and Frank Lampard, and longer term victims Trevor Sinclair,  Steve Lomas and Titi Camara, amongst the senior players who are currently crocked.

At least Fredi Kanoute is improving and available at the weekend as West Ham chase that elusive point to avoid relegation.

Says physio John Green:

"Nigel tore his hamstring and won't take part in any more games this season; he's going through the normal rehabilititive process from that.

"John Moncur saw the specialist last night about his knee injury and it is confirmed he has a bone bruise on the femur and again, we probably won't see him available this season.

"Frank Lampard has been in this week to have the dressing changed on the hernia operation scar and is walking around quite comfortably - his rehab will start around the 14th May.

"Obviously Ian Pearce is unable to play now because of his concussion and he still has some memory problems, although they are improving.

"Craig Forrest has a sprained ankle and should be fit in about a fortnight's time.

"Trevor Sinclair is progressing fantastically and is very happy with things.

"Titi Camara had his operation yesterday at the Lister hospital with Andrew Williams, the consultant who did Trevor's operation.

"It was a similar procedure called a microfracture whereby they irritate the lining of the joint where the damage has occured, and by doing that it bleeds.

"As a result of that bleeding healing occurs, but for the next 6-8 weeks it is unlikely that Titi will do any physical activity; he will then go to a specialist rehab centre in France in readiness for pre-season.

"Steve Lomas is recuperating at home after his surgery and will come in next week to start his rehab.

"Raggy Soma, who has pulled a groin, is still sore and it is unlikely he will play this season.

"Paul Kitson and Gary Charles are both progressing well and probably be training next week."

Clearly, then, it is the midfield area which is hardest hit and Harry may once again bring Christian Dailly forward to the engine room with Kaba Diawara switching back to the left to replace Nigel and thus make way for Fredi's return.

Hayden Foxe is the logical replacement for Ian Pearce; there is also the option of handing loanee Christian Basilla his first start or recalling Sebastien Schemmel.

But it might be worth bringing your boots!