David Moyes makes strong decision on West Ham United defender Nayef Aguerd
David Moyes has made it very clear that West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd won’t be playing in the Premier League before the World Cup.
Aguerd recently returned to full fitness after a long injury lay-off that required surgery. He has featured in two Europa Conference League games so far.
Moyes doesn’t want to rush him in the Premier League, so he will only feature after the World Cup. It means he won’t play against Crystal Palace and Leicester City.
“I’m pleased for him. I think that will be his first 90 minutes since the end of last season. I think he will benefit from the 90 minutes,” said Moyes to the club’s official website.
“He’s certainly back now but I don’t think he’ll play for us in the Premier League before the World Cup break.
“But if you’re asking me if he’s fit and ready to go, yes he is, and we’re just getting him completely ready now.”
Good decision
Aguerd is a fantastic defender and it’s better if he is slowly integrated into the side.
He has missed a chunk of action and he will be eager to get more minutes before the World Cup. But Moyes doesn’t want to take the risk with him in the Premier League.
Another injury could be a disaster for him and the club. He is physically fit now, and it’s better if he is allowed to train properly. After the World Cup, Moyes definitely will throw him into the mix.
Most importantly, the Hammers have lots of options at the back. Moyes can rely on Kurt Zouma and Craig Dawson at the heart of defence.
With both full-backs now completely fit, Thilo Kehrer remains another option for Moyes, while Angelo Ogbonna is still around. So, there is no need to risk Aguerd right now.
The Hammers will be looking to return to winning ways in the Premier League when they take on Crystal Palace on Sunday (6 November) at the London Stadium.