Cole set for a return to West Ham

Joe Cole has failed to impose himself since arriving at Liverpool. EPA Photo

Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole was yesterday having a medical examination at West Ham United with a view to rejoining the club where he began his career, according to Britain’s Press Association.

Cole has failed to impose himself since arriving at Anfield from Chelsea in 2010, starting just nine Premier League games and spending last season on loan at French side Lille.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers does not seem pressed to find a place for Cole in his first team, prompting the 31-year-old to seek a return to West Ham, with whom he made his professional debut in 1999.

West Ham hopes to complete the transfer in time for Cole to feature in weekend’s FA Cup third-round clash at home to Manchester United.

Liverpool’s willingness to cancel the England international’s contract means West Ham will not have to pay a transfer fee.

Meanwhile, West Ham has confirmed that Israeli midfielder Yossi Benayoun has returned to his parent club, Chelsea.