Chris Sutton reacts to ‘huge’ Nayef Aguerd news as West Ham United defender misses World Cup clash v France
Chris Sutton has suggested Nayef Aguerd’s injury was a “huge blow” for Morocco as the West Ham United defender pulled out of their World Cup semi-final defeat against France.
Despite Aguerd being named in the starting eleven, he was not present when both sets of players took to the field at the Al Bayt Stadium.
GFFN (13 December) suggested Aguerd was struggling with a hamstring issue and Sutton believes has was an important part of Morocco’s success.
“Losing Aguerd is a huge blow for Morocco. They can’t worry and overthink about that now but he is one of their first-choice defenders. We thought Saiss might be the one missing out,” said Sutton (BBC Sport live blog, 19:02, 14 December).
Big blow
David Moyes will be hoping the injury to Aguerd is not too serious, with the Moroccan set to be an important part of his plans for the second half of the Premier League season. The fact that he was named in the initial eleven is potentially a good sign for the Hammers.
He potentially felt that he was fitter enough to start the semi-final which indicates his fitness is not too far off. Considering Kurt Zouma is out injured and Craig Dawson is likely to leave West Ham, having Aguerd back to his best is absolutely essential for Moyes.
The Scot is certainly feeling the pressure after a tough start to the season and he desperately needs his summer signings to adapt to life in the Premier League. Gianluca Scamacca and Lucas Paqueta both arrived with high expectations but have failed to deliver thus far. A fully fit Aguerd returning to the London Stadium will be a huge boost for the underfire boss.