The former Liverpool hitman has had to endure a difficult start to life at Upton Park since making the move to London last summer, with numerous fitness problems leading to long spells on the treatment table.

After undergoing surgery in America in the summer, the 25-year-old looked set to be out of action until December, but Carroll has made a speedy recovery, and could be available for selection in early November.

Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has considerably bolstered his strikeforce in the summer, with Mauro Zarate, Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia already notching six league goals this campaign.

But despite being behind such an in-form attacking triumvirate in the pecking order, Carroll is adamant he is ready to fight for a starting berth.

"I don't mind a battle, and every team needs competition for places," Carroll told the London Evening Standard.

"That is one of the things we have here. Everyone is fighting for their place.

"It has been mixed emotions for me watching the team this season.

"I am desperate to be out there on the pitch but I remember the Liverpool game when I was jumping up and down watching from the box. I think I did enough work for that day on my ankle!

"I know I've had problems with injuries and I'm not hiding away from that.

"Hopefully this is the last one and I can get it out of the way. The club have put a lot of faith in me, paying so much money, but I don't feel like I've let them down. It's an injury that I couldn't help."

Carroll also moved to play down speculation linking him with a sensational move back to former club Newcastle, insisting he is excited by the prospect of playing at the Olympic Stadium with the Hammers.

"It looks fantastic and everyone is looking forward to being there," Carroll added.

"We cannot wait to be a part of it. It's going to be one of the best grounds around - both the inside and outside look fantastic."