West Ham United would like to clear up media speculation regarding Carlton Cole's offer to join Stoke City.
Carlton has not asked for a transfer and has remained committed to the club at all times. In being given permission to talk to Stoke, the negotiations did not break down as a result of him asking for too much money. He was discussing wage parity with other key players and was well within his right to do so.
Further, there is no issue in terms of his reported "injury problems". An England striker, he played 43 games last season. In fact he has averaged 36 matches a year in the last four campaigns at West Ham United.
Carlton remains part of the West Ham United first-team squad under Sam Allardyce.