We should believe in Carlton Cole

Carlton Cole's three-month deal expired yesterday and we still haven't re-signed him, while QPR and Palace are sniffing around. West Ham are still awaiting the work permit hearing result on signing giant Monaco striker Lucina Traore on loan, but even if we get Traore the club should surely invest in Cole for the rest of the season as cover for Traore and Carroll. It's going to be several weeks before Carroll can complete full matches. Carlton has scored four goals in his second spell with the Hammers and is much more of a physical presence than Maiga up front. He also appears to care about the club and there's no risk to signing him. We should pay him a decent wage, even if it is above the going rate, to keep him at the club.