Credit: Imago

Dr Rajpal Brar

Mon 21 April 2025 17:10, UK Updated Tue 22 April 2025 1:42, UK

West Ham defender Aaron Cresswell is not back at 100 per cent yet after his muscle injury, according to Dr Rajpal Brar.

The injury expert claims that even though he has returned to the bench, his lack of game time since the start of April means he’s not quite there.

The 35-year-old has not played for the Hammers since the 1-0 loss against Wolves on 1 April.

Cresswell is unlikely to start against Brighton

Given Cresswell’s age and his lack of regular game time, he’s not expected to start the next Premier League clash against Brighton at the AmEx Stadium on 26 April.

He was an unused substitute as the Hammers were held to a 1-1 draw against Southampton on 19 April.

Speaking exclusively with West Ham Zone, Dr Brar, a specialist in Physical Therapy and a Sports Scientist, said: “He was out with a muscle injury and has returned to the bench, but hasn’t played yet.

“I reckon he’s still some way from being at 100 per cent and it’s going to take a while to get him there.

“He may not be ready to play the full 90 minutes yet or even start the next one.“

West Ham and Cresswell could part ways this summer

Cresswell’s potential departure in the summer makes sense for both parties due to his age, reduced role, and the club’s need for long-term planning.

At 35, Cresswell’s physical capabilities are waning, evident in his limited starts and struggles against pacey opponents, as noted in past critiques of his defensive positioning.

With Emerson Palmieri as the first-choice left-back and young talents like Ollie Scarles emerging, Cresswell’s role has shifted to a backup and mentor, which may not align with his desire to play regularly.

West Ham, under Graham Potter, are adopting a 5-3-2 formation, requiring dynamic defenders, and the club are likely to have already eyed replacements.

This mutual parting allows the London outfit to refresh their squad while Cresswell pursues new opportunities.