West Ham fans will be relieved to hear that star striker Carlton Cole will not require a surgery on his knee injury, although the club have confirmed he is set to be sidelined for a 'number of weeks'.

The 26-year-old, who has been in great form this season and has netted seven Premier League goals, damaged ligaments in his right knee during the 5-3 victory over Burnley last weekend and had to be substituted at half-time.

There were fears he would be out for up to four months, but those worries have now been dispelled by the Hammers, who are hopeful he can make a swift return.

The news will be welcomed by both Gianfranco Zola, with his side struggling at the wrong end of the table, and England coach Fabio Capello, who has named Cole in his Three Lions squads of late.

"Cole will not need surgery on his right knee and, having been closely assessed in recent days, will start his rehab with the aim of being back as soon as possible," read a statement on the club's official website.

Meanwhile, the Hammers are also set to be without Switzerland midfielder Valon Behrami for around three weeks after he underwent minor surgery on a knee injury, while defender Matthew Upson is struggling with a hamstring problem.

To compound the misery - West Ham welcome champions Manchester United to Upton Park on Saturday.