Cole eyeing first start

West Ham United striker Carlton Cole has been put through his paces ahead of England's international friendly meeting with Hungary at Wembley on Wednesday.

The Hammer could earn his eighth senior cap against the Magyars and, with Sunderland striker Darren Bent missing training on Monday through injury, could make his first start for his country alongside Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney.

Cole may be battling with Fulham's former West Ham star Bobby Zamora for the start, with the latter hoping to make his senior debut for the Three Lions.

The 26-year-old forward has been in superb form in pre-season, scoring four goals and leading the line with strength and skill under new manager Avram Grant.

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Cole is one of a host of Hammers in line to represent their respective countries in midweek, with Jonathan Spector (United States), Pablo Barrera (Mexico), Valon Behrami (Switzerland), Herita Ilunga (DR Congo) and Thomas Hitzlsperger (Germany) all jetting off for friendly international assignments following Saturday's SBOBET Cup victory over RC Deportivo La Coruna.

Closer to home, the Boleyn Ground will play host to an exciting friendly meeting between four-times FIFA World Cup winners Italy and African challengers Ivory Coast on Tuesday evening. For ticket information, click here.

Keep a close eye on whufc.com for details on how all West Ham's international representatives got on.