Andy Carroll continues to be a topic of debate both at club and international level.

The England international has featured in very little games over the last two years. This is due to persistent injury troubles and it does not appear to go away any time soon. West Ham were hoping for a much better return on their £ 15 million investment when they signed Carroll on a permanent basis. The upcoming campaign is a make or break for the 26-year-old striker. Carroll was brought to Upton Park by former manager Sam Allardyce, who favoured a physical style of football.

This also would have suited the former Newcastle united man, but things have changed at the club over the last few months. New manager Slaven Bilic has been brought to the club in the hope of entertaining the fans. The former West Ham player is expected to play a more attractive style of football, which may involve the ball being on the ground more often than not. This does not exploit Andy Carroll’s strengths to the maximum. Hence, it has been speculated that Bilic may look at another option in the transfer window. The former Croatian boss, though, has confirmed that Carroll remains in his plans.

“He plays a lot of attacking football. I have seen the teams he has been coaching and they love to go out an attack. That is great for me and I cannot wait to get started,” said Bilic. Carroll is looking to become fit in time for the start of the new Premier League season, but he will have competition for the first team spots. Sakho impressed heavily last season and chipped in with 12 league goals in his debut campaign. More is expected from him in this campaign and it may threaten Carroll’s position in the squad.