West Ham are set to receive a very welcome injury boost ahead of a crucial period of the season, it’s been reported by ExWHUEmployee.

As we embark on the business end of the campaign, our Hammers still very much have a lot to play for, with the target of European football next season still there, although the loss to Fulham at the weekend certainly dented the confidence levels.

We are also hosting Bayer Leverkusen on Thursday night, with a mountain to climb with the score currently at 2-0 in the German sides favour in the tie.

The anxiety levels in east London haven’t been helped with recent injuries to players, including our top scorer Jarrod Bowen, although our club insider Ex has provided a somewhat encouraging update on the situation.

Reporting on The West Ham Way Podcast, Ex advised on a number of players, with many set to make their returns to availability for David Moyes’ side.

“We understand that Bowen isn’t too far away from returning,” said Ex. “As of now there is an outside chance he’ll be available on Thursday night, but the club can’t commit to that just yet.

“Areola is back in training, and as he’s not our usual cup goalkeeper, he’s likely to therefore be available for selection against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

“Kalvin Phillips is also close and could be available Thursday night, as could be the case for Mavropanos, whose injury isn’t thought to be serious.”

Ex will be keeping fans up to date on the situation as it develops further, on The West Ham Way Patreon.