Hammers hit by Faubert injury blow

The 23-year-old French midfielder suffered the injury during Tuesday night's pre-season match against Sigma Olomouc and has flown to Strasbourg to undergo surgery.

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West Ham manager Alan Curbishley said: "It's a devastating blow for everyone, especially Julien. He had fitted in so well and was showing all the attributes needed to be a success in the Premiership.

"You could see in the short bit of football he has played with us that he was going to be a big hit with the supporters - he is strong, fast, gets up and down, and understands the game - so to lose him after an hour of football and just two weeks at the club is a big disappointment.

"We wish Julien a speedy recovery and, having got to know the boy over the past week or so, I am certain that he will respond to this set-back in the right way. Hopefully we will see him back in action around Christmas time, but the main thing is that he follows his rehabilitation programme and only returns when he is 100% ready."

Faubert, a France international, was making only his second appearance for the club after signing from Bordeaux on a five-year contract earlier this month.

Hammers physio George Cooper described the injury as a "major shock" because Faubert had no history of Achilles trouble.

"On the plus side, we have managed to get him to a top surgeon in Strasbourg, who has successfully operated on the likes of Zinedine Zidane and Lilian Thuram in the past, so he is in very good hands. Two to three days is the key time for this injury and everything will be done and in place for Julien within that period," said Cooper.

"We expect him to be out of action for around six months but we will not be putting any definitive date on his return - he will come back only when he is completely ready.

"I have to say, Julien's attitude and reaction to the injury has been first class. He was already planning his rehabilitation in the taxi on the way to the hospital, and we will be working with him every step of the way to ensure he returns to full fitness as soon as possible."

West Ham have not had much good fortune on the injury front since Curbishley took over.

Matthew Upson was plagued by a calf problem after completing his £6million move to West Ham in January and made just two appearances for the club last season, not even totalling 40 minutes.

Danny Gabbidon also struggled for fitness last season, while Lucas Neill was sidelined shortly after his arrival from Blackburn.