Thursday 7 August 2014 12:05, UK
Carlton Cole is looking to fill the void left by Andy Carroll's injury and provide West Ham United's firepower this season.
Carroll is set to be sidelined for four months with an ankle injury sustained in pre-season and the Hammers may feel the need to look for a new striker before the transfer deadline, with summer signing Enner Valencia still thought to be a few weeks away from match fitness.
Cole could therefore be in line to start the campaign in the first XI, and he is desperate to grasp the opportunity to impress.
"When Andy was out last year, I felt I did a good job in that period of time, so I know I can do that," he said in the Daily Star.
"It's not a problem for me, it's just about getting fit. I have a great opportunity to get fit and get the games under my belt so I can start the season well.
"We've got competition for places and that's what's going to spur me on to even do better."
