West Ham teenage prodigy Reece Oxford has been left sidelined for four weeks after suffering an ankle injury.
According to theMirror, the 17-year-old injured his ankle ligaments in training last Saturday and will spend a minimum of four weeks in the treatment room before returning to full fitness.
The youngster broke onto the scene last season after starring in the Hammer's opening match with Arsenal at the tender age of 16, and held his own against the likes of Mesut Ozil.
Oxford has gone on to cement his place in the first team set-up under Slaven Bilic, making seven appearances in all competitions last season.
Despite only featuring twice in the Europa League this campaign, Oxford continues to be linked with a host of Europe's top clubs andManchester United.
The London-borndefender can also ply his trade in midfield andis often likened to former West Ham prodigy Rio Ferdinand. Oxfordrecently revealed that he would like to emulate the former England international's career.
The teenager signed a deal with sports mega brand Nike this season but is yet to put pen to paper on a contract extension with the Hammers.
It is thought that Oxford has been advised to keep his options open and be available in case a bigger club comes calling. His contract ends in 2018 and there are no signs that the contract situation will be resolved any time soon.
Oxfordhas represented England from under-16s up to under-20s and is seen by many as a potential future member of the senior team.