The England winger slotted home a controversial winner 14 minutes from time to give the home side a vital win over a resilient Hammers side.

The Blues jumped to second with 31 points from 15 games, while West Ham remained 10th with 19 points.

An edgy first half lacked rhythm as the visitors managed to frustrate Chelsea and keep Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba quiet.

Chelsea skipper John Terry was involved in a row with Luis Boa Morte, following the latter's tough challenge on goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini.

Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel maintained his habit of making wild challenges as the 20-year-old committed a clumsy two-footed tackle on West Ham's Scott Parker seven minutes from the break.

Mikel, who was lucky to be just cautioned for his challenge, was even more fortunate not to see red for the fourth time in two years, as referee Howard Webb was lenient not to give him a second booking for a couple of other tackles.

Controversial Winner

Chelsea went in the second half looking for the winner, and the in-form Cole salvaged the three points for Avram Grant's men.

Cole followed Salomon Kalou's through header, rounded goalkeeper Robert Green before hitting the roof of the net to win the game for Chelsea.

However, television replays showed that the former Hammers man was suspicious of being in an offside position.