Carlton Cole in talks on new West Ham contract

West Ham striker Carlton Cole wants to pledge his long-term future to the club and is in talks to sign a new contract.

Cole, 24, was strongly linked with Sunderland on transfer deadline day but the former Chelsea forward has enjoyed a successful run in the Hammers attack recently because of injuries to Dean Ashton and Craig Bellamy.

Cole has started the first four games alongside Ashton (right), but knows his chances could be limited after Bellamy returned from hamstring trouble and the club brought in Italian international David di Michele from Torino.

But the former England Under-21 forward insists he is relishing the competition for places and has no intentions of leaving Upton Park.

Cole said: "I don't want the fans to think that I want to leave. I am happy at West Ham. I have just become a father and I don't want to go anywhere. I am really settled in my life and only want to work hard and do well for West Ham. I am just looking forward to a bright future and, when the time is right, the deal will be done.

"All I am thinking about is pushing on this season and scoring more goals. That is my main objective. I am happy with my situation and hopefully I can carry on playing games and doing my best for West Ham.

"When I play, I am happy. Every time I play for West Ham I try and give 100 per cent.

"Hopefully I can stay fit and be available for selection every game, like I was last season.

"The fans have not seen the best of me. Last season I had my first proper run of games and I was happy with my tally of appearances - but I want to add more goals.

"Hopefully we can be a potent strikeforce together, whatever the combination.

"Even if we are coming off the bench, we have got to all pull in the same direction and help each other."

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