West Ham could be without Diafro Sakho and Stewart Downing for Everton clash

 

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Top form: Diafra Sakho ihas scored six league goals for West Ham this season
Ken Dyer20 November 2014

West Ham could be without in-form striker Diafra Sakho and Stewart Downing for Saturday’s trip to Everton.

Sakho, who has scored six goals, suffered back spasms while on international duty with Senegal while Sam Allardyce said today Downing had to be withdrawn at half‑time of England’s win over Scotland on Tuesday night after aggravating a knee problem.

“We don’t know with either player yet, if they are going to make it for Saturday,” said manager Allardyce.

“Sakho only arrived back last night and will be assessed over the next 48 hours. We haven’t got a lot of time to solve the problem.”

Sakho’s potential absence places more pressure on Andy Carroll, who only made his first appearance of the season in the final game before the international break. Carroll, who damaged his ankle in pre-season, almost turned the match when he came on against Aston Villa and wants to feature again.

The striker played a further 90 minutes in a friendly against Fulham, scoring in a 3-3 draw, and said: “It’s great to be back. Playing 90 minutes against Fulham was great and against Villa before that was even better.

Five things we learnt from Scotland v England

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“I’m hoping for more minutes at Everton. We’re flying at the minute and all I can do is fight for my place.

“That’s what I’m doing in training and hopefully the gaffer will put me on for a few more minutes this weekend.

“I’ve worked a lot with the medical staff. They’ve helped get me fighting fit and I’m feeling great.”

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