Transfer news: Carlton Cole return to West Ham collapses after striker fails to prove fitness
The striker's contract expired in the summer after seven years at Upton Park
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Your support makes all the difference.Carlton Cole has missed out on sealing a return to West Ham after failing to prove his fitness, Press Association Sport understands.
The 29-year-old ended a seven-year stint at Upton Park when he left at the expiration of his contract in June.
But the England international striker was unable to find a new club, and with West Ham failing to add a striker to their ranks despite a number of transfer deadline day targets, it emerged that Cole could make a swift return.
The Barclays Premier League club confirmed an interest in re-signing the former Chelsea frontman with a statement on their website on Tuesday.
"The club are pleased to announce that popular striker Carlton Cole is also undergoing a medical today with a view to returning to the Boleyn Ground on a short-term deal," it read.
A potential deal was also hailed by Hammers captain Kevin Nolan but it now appears that Cole will remain a free agent, with West Ham going forward with Andy Carroll, Ricardo Vaz Te and Modibo Maiga as their options in attack.
PA
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