Kanoute may still play at Anfield

Frederic Kanoute has been told he could still play in West Ham's opening Premiership game of the season against Liverpool on 18 August.

The French striker feared he would miss the match after sustaining a hamstring strain during the 3-0 victory over Stevenage on Monday. But scans have shown he could be back in action within two weeks.

Kanoute, who was linked with an £8 million move to Fulham during the summer, has scored five goals in three pre-season friendlies and a West Ham spokesman said: "Freddie underwent scans yesterday and the results showed he had pulled his hamstring.

"It is just down to him resting now but hopefully he could be ready for the opening game. We will just have to see how he progresses."

Meanwhile, Toulouse winger Lauren Courtois has agreed to join West Ham but the deal is being held up by a wrangle over the transfer fee.

Courtois, who impressed manager Glenn Roeder during a trial period at Upton Park, said: "I have held talks with Glenn Roeder and everything is okay between myself and West Ham.

"The big question mark is how much Toulouse want for me.

"We will see what happens but it is beginning to drag on a bit.

"I just hope the two clubs can agree a fee and I can make a permanent move to West Ham.

"I am loving my time in English football and the supporters have been great to me since I came to the club.

"Frederic Kanoute told me about West Ham and the ability of Glenn Roeder as a coach. I can now see he was totally right in what he said to me.

"Glenn likes to play football in the right manner and it also suits my style of play."

Roeder is confident the deal will be completed and said: "Lauren has done very well since he came over to the club and I am hopeful he will be with us for the next couple of seasons."