West Ham defender Jose Fonte ruled out for 2-3 months

West Ham defender Jose Fonte has been ruled out for the rest of the year with a foot injury.

The 33-year-old limped off during last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace and revealed on Instagram he will be sidelined for two to three months.

Fonte is expected to miss at least 12 matches between now and the new year including Saturday night’s visit of Liverpool.

Fonte said on social media: “Difficult to digest but with my mind already focused on a quick recovery. I will be back stronger in 2 or 3 months. I look forward to the grind. Big win tomorrow would definitely help.”

The former Southampton captain was replaced by 18-year-old Declan Rice at Selhurst Park and Slaven Bilic will be hoping he can fill the void left by Fonte.

Declan Rice has made eight appearances for West Ham’s first team this season

Rice, a Republic of Ireland Under-21 international, has already impressed when called upon by the first team this season.

He made his debut in the final game of last season against Burnley and has made eight appearances this term.