Jarrod Bowen is out for around six weeks with a broken leg he suffered against Liverpool. Sky Sports News understands.
The 28-year-old limped off in the 60th minute as Julen Lopetegui’s side struck at the London Stadium, with no timetable given for his return.
Bowen said he was injured in the first half but tried to keep playing.
There were fears Bowen, who has scored six goals this season, could be out for up to two months, but Hammers boss Lopetegui is hopeful the 28-year-old will be back much sooner.
Unfortunately for us, yes, he has an injury,” said Lopetegui. “He was able to play 30 minutes with this injury and now he has to rest and he has to recover.
“Let’s see, but it won’t be for a few days. It’s not good news for us, but for other players it’s the moment we have.
“We’re sure Jarrod will recover quicker because of his character, but it’s true that he’ll be out in the next few games.
“Let’s see. I prefer not to say a number because we will have to see how he develops in the coming weeks.
Bowen receives treatment on his left foot during West Ham’s defeat to Liverpool
“Jarod is definitely one of our key players and so is our captain. But now we have to be able to find a solution and it’s time for the other players to show that they are ready to help us and ensure that there is an answer. it’s going to be good.
“So we are looking to get Jarrod back as soon as possible, but equally we have faith in the players in the squad and they will try to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Bowen is West Ham’s top scorer this season with five Premier League goals and has the most assists with four.
His injury is a significant blow for the under-pressure Lopetegui, who has struggled since taking over from David Moyes in the summer.
West Ham are 13th in the Premier League with 6 wins from 19 games and are eight points above the bottom three.
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Highlights of the Premier League match between West Ham and Liverpool
Which games could Bowen miss? West Ham’s next matches?
January 4: “Manchester City” (a)
January 10: Aston Villa (a) – FA Cup
January 14: Fulham (h)
January 18: Crystal Palace (h)
January 26: Aston Villa (a) – Live Stream Sky Sports
February 3: Chelsea (a) – Live Sky Sports
February 15: Brentford (h)
