West Ham v Bayer Leverkusen: Doctor shares Alphonse Areola injury news
West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola is not back in training yet with his adductor injury, according to Dr Rajpal Brar.
The injury expert has reacted to David Moyes’ comments on the French stopper when he claimed it was not a serious setback.
It’s also not understood to be a full rupture that would’ve kept him out for over three months but he’s not going to be back against Bayer Leverkusen on 18 April.
Speaking exclusively with West Ham Zone, Brar, a specialist in Physical Therapy and a Sports Scientist, said:
“If it’s in fact a “tweak”, then you hope it’s just a Grade 1 adductor injury which can take two weeks or slightly longer.
“Worst case there is a Grade 3 full rupture and over three months out but that would be surprising based on the manager’s language.
“If he is to return on the 27th, I’d expect him back in full training the week or so prior.“
West Ham will hope for Alphonse Areola’s return from injury
Areola’s 2023/24 season with the club has been marked by notable performances, including crucial penalty saves against Chelsea and Everton.
Despite a difficult start to the year, his contributions helped the Hammers play with confidence.
He has saved about two goals more than the average goalkeeper would, based on PSxG (post-shot expected goals) analysis and Moyes will want him back soon.
In other West Ham news, Michael Owen has been left fuming amid a recent controversy in London involving the Hammers.
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