Another striker to slip the net

Striker Carlton Cole says he is happy at West Ham and is discussing a new contract at Upton Park despite reports linking him to Stoke.

It is being claimed that Tony Pulis wants to take the 24-year-old hitman to the Britannia Stadium before the transfer window slams shut at midnight on Monday. However Cole, who joined the club from Chelsea in 2006 and still has two years remaining on his current deal, insists he wants to stay put after becoming a key part of boss Alan Curbishley's plans.

He told the club's official website: "I don't want the fans to think that I want to leave. I am happy at West Ham. I have just had a baby 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. The fans have not seen the best of me yet. My hold-up play is, I think, quite good but I want to show there is more to my game."