Parker commits to Hammers’ cause

WEST HAM captain Scott Parker has ended speculation about his future by signing a new contract until the end of the 2013-14 season.

The central midfielder, who signed for the club from Newcastle in 2007, had been the subject of interest from Barclays Premier League rivals Tottenham, who had a bid for the 29-year-old rejected during the transfer window.

However, the Hammers announced yesterday that Parker had signed a new contract that will see him stay at the club for another four years, with the option of a further 12 months.

“I am just absolutely delighted to have signed the contract,” Parker said.

“Everyone knows I enjoy playing my football here. I really wanted to stay here, give it a shot and see what can happen. I always knew this was where I was going to be.’’

Meanwhile, Arsenal have confirmed that winger Theo Walcott will be sidelined for up to six weeks with an ankle injury he sustained on international duty with England.

Walcott suffered the injury during England’s 3-1 win over Switzerland on Tuesday night and leaves Arsenal in the midst of an injury crisis ahead of their clash with Bolton this weekend.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger confirmed that Walcott, 21, would be missing for up to six weeks.

“The tackle looked quite bad,” said Wenger. “When you see how it turned his ankle I thought it would be three or four days or it would be four to six weeks. Unfortunately it will be four to six weeks.

Wenger will be also be without Robin van Persie for a similar length of time but the Gunners have been boosted by the return of Samir Nasri.

He has recovered quicker than expected after knee surgery and could even be involved against Bolton.