View: Issa Diop could answer West Ham defensive prayers
West Ham might not have to spend big on a centre-back in the summer transfer window thanks to Issa Diop’s performance against Southampton.
The 25-year-old’s form has come under scrutiny in recent times, but Hammers mustn’t forget the form the Frenchman showed when he first came to the club.
The defender was brilliant with many fans thinking the Irons would struggle to keep hold of him for long, but he has struggled to maintain those levels.
However, David Moyes’ comments on Diop after last night’s loss against Southampton shows he still has what it takes to be a stalwart in the West Ham defence if he knuckles down.
The Scot told football.london: “I thought Issa Diop played as well as anybody tonight, playing slightly out of position and I thought he did a really good job.”
His performance was excellent as it has been on several occasions when called upon so the club might just be considering their summer transfer plans.
Prove himself
Diop could definitely sooth the urgent need for defensive back-up if he can rediscover his form on a consistent basis.
Far too many times this season has he been way below the level needed to play for the Hammers, especially considering their push on all fronts.
He certainly wasn’t helped by the long-term injuries to Kurt Zouma and Angelo Ogbonna which flung him into action, partnered with Craig Dawson.
Neither him or Dawson are world beaters and are much better off next to either Zouma or Ogbonna and that was evident last night.
Diop had a brilliant game next to Zouma despite playing slightly out of position. He needs someone to lead the line next to him so he can focus solely on his job.
If he can continue to show how well he can actually play as he did last night, it would eradicate the need for a total rebuild at the heart of defence with Ogbonna and Dawson both nearing the end of their careers.
In other West Ham news, Aaron Cresswell is in contention for the Liverpool clash.
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