View: David Moyes needs to trust West Ham U23 ace Aji Alese in defence

David Moyes has to call on West Ham under-23s captain Aji Alese to plug the gaping hole at the heart of the Hammers’ defence.

With Issa Diop likely out for the rest of the season following his “serious” ankle injury, Irons fans have almost lost their minds anticipating who the Scot is going to play in centre-back alongside Craig Dawson.

With Declan Rice and Tomas Soucek too important to the way the team play, the boss must look within his youth ranks.

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Alese the answer.

The U23 captain is a player waiting for another chance having impressed when given the chance in the Europa League.

He is a shining star in the youth set up with it only being a matter of time before he makes the step up to the first team.

It isn’t ideal throwing a youngster into the mix with so many important games on the Horizon but the Moyes doesn’t have much of a choice.

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Alese will be desperate to impress which often sees younger players exceed all expectations when they are brought into the team – take Ben Johnson as the perfect example.

It might be wise to change to a back five to give the 21-year-old that little bit more protection or the Scot could have Rice and Soucek on red alert, ensuring one of the dynamic midfield duo is available at all times to help the youngster.

Diop’s injury has come at the worst time possible for the Hammers but they have to deal with it now. Hopefully, the rest of the squad steer clear of any issues; particularly Dawson because if he isn’t able to play, they are in big, big trouble.

In other West Ham news, View: The Hammers need to sign Nick Pope with a cheaper price for the keeper being reported.

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