Bilic: Ayew injury a 'big blow'

West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has lamented the loss of new signing Andre Ayew due to injury but remains hopeful of seeing the Ghanaian back in action before the close of the year.

The 26-year-old winger suffered a thigh strain while playing his first game for the Hammers against Chelsea on Monday.

Initial medical examination revealed an expected four-month layoff, but the club says the player will undergo further evaluation, amid speculations of an imminent surgery.

“With Andre, we know he is our record signing and he is out for four months and it’s a big blow,” Bilic said after his side’s 1-1 stalemate with Astra Giurgiu of Romania in the Europa League on Thursday.

"But the time will pass and he’s a good healer.

"He is very professional and he’s going to be back later on this year, we hope.

“It’s not the first time for us and we’ll show character and that’s what makes us such a good team.”

Ayew was on the books of fellow Premier League side Swansea last season, netting 12 times in 34 topflight games before joining West Ham on a three-year deal worth £20.5m.