Aaron Cresswell has handed West Ham a timely boost as the defender could be in contention to face Crystal Palace after the international break.

Left-back Cresswell is yet to play a part this season after suffering a knee ligament injury during a pre-season fixture.

It was feared the 26-year-old would be ruled out for around four to six months but Cresswell is now nearing a return to first-team action.

The former Ipswich Town star played 50 minutes in a training ground match on Thursday and could be at Slaven Bilic’s disposal for the London derby against Palace.

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He told the West Ham official website: “It feels good to be back out there training with the lads and not being stuck in the gym or the treatment room as I look to get the knee right.

“I could not have asked anymore from the physio's, especially Eamon, our Rehab Fitness Coach who has helped me out massively over the last 12 weeks.

“It is not just the body, it is the mind as well that you have to get right. For me this is the first time I have had a long-term injury and hopefully it will be the last.

“I am looking forward to getting back in contention. I have played 50 minutes and the knee feels good. I am looking forward to next week.”

The Hammers have made a disastrous start to the Premier League campaign and find themselves in the relegation zone during the international break.

Bilic’s side have only sealed one point in their last five league games, while Palace are unbeaten since August 20.

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