West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic is expecting crocked star Andre Ayew to make quicker-than-expected return to action in November.
Ayew is facing a four-month injury layoff after suffering a muscle strain in his thigh two weeks ago in the Hammers opener against Chelsea in their Premier League opener.
He spent only 35 minutes at Stamford Bridge.
If the former Marseille star recovers before the turn of the year, he could feature in Ghana's second 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Egypt in Cairo.
“Andre is very optimistic and he is good," Bilic told pressmen on Friday ahead of Sunday's league clash with Bournemouth.
"He is professional and has approached even this injury, having spoken to many people, with optimism.
"He could be out for two-and-a-half months, or four months, but he shouldn’t be out for longer than four months.
"He could be back this year and we just have to hope without moaning or crying."
Ayew completed a three-year move worth £20.5 million from Swansea to become the club's record signing.