West Ham United defender Aaron Cresswell picks up hamstring injury
West Ham left-back Aaron Cresswell is unlikely to feature against Udinese in the friendly game on Saturday 10 December after he picked up a hamstring injury, as reported by Claret and Hugh.
The 32-year-old defender was taken off against Cambridge for precautionary measures, but it seems his situation is more problematic.
The reliable Hammers source wrote on 10 December that he has picked up a “minor” hamstring issue, but the club are unlikely to take any risk with him.
“West Ham are likely to be without Aaron Cresswell for today’s game in Italy,” wrote Claret and Hugh.
“The left-back was taken off at Cambridge for what were believed to be precautionary reasons but in fact the problem is a tad more problematical.
“Claret and Hugh understands that the 32-year-old has a minor hamstring injury and is unlikely to be risked in the game.”
Makes sense
Cresswell has made 14 appearances in the Premier League this season, and he is vital to David Moyes’s plans.
These friendly games are important for building fitness, but there’s no point in taking risks with Cresswell who doesn’t appear to have picked up any major injury issues.
Moyes could use Emerson as a left-back against the Italian side.
The Brazilian has struggled to make an impact since joining the Hammers in the summer from Chelsea, but he has a great opportunity to prove a point.
West Ham probably should look to sign a new left-back in January.
Cresswell is approaching the fag end of his career, while Emerson doesn’t exude confidence as a conventional left-back.
Maxwel Cornet is another player who can operate as a left-back or left-wing back, but Moyes probably doesn’t see him playing at the back.
Moyes will be frustrated with so many injury problems, especially at the back, but hopefully he will get all his key players fit before the end of this month.