Sears back at the Boleyn

Freddie Sears has been recalled for the busy Christmas programme at West Ham United.

The 21-year-old striker impressed during a two-month loan spell at Championship side Scunthorpe United and will hope to force his way into Avram Grant's plans with matches to come against Fulham, Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers between now and New Year's Day. The Hammers also have an FA Cup third-round tie against Barnsley on Saturday 8 January, three days after the league trip to Newcastle United.

Sears has had three loan spells away from the Boleyn Ground, playing at Crystal Palace and Coventry City before Scunthorpe. He was due to rejoin his team-mates for training on Wednesday before Sunday's trip to Fulham. Matthew Fry remains the only Hammer out on loan, with his hugely successful spell at Charlton Athletic continuing until early January.