West Ham boss David Moyes should consider giving Issa Diop a run out against Fulham tonight in place of Aaron Cresswell.
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Cresswell, 30, has been superb for the Hammers this season.
The former Ipswich Town ace has flourished as a left-sided centre-back in West Ham’s new system. He has had to rely less on his pace and doesn’t need to get up and down the pitch as much as he did when he played in the left-back position.
Cresswell has racked up an impressive three assists in seven Premier League games this season. And he is taking advantage of being able to float forward into the inside left channel when we have the ball.
He did suffer an injury scare against Liverpool last time out, however. And taking his age into account, he could do with a rest.
At the same time, Issa Diop, 23, hasn’t played since our 2-1 defeat to Arsenal in September. It will be vital for the 6ft 4in Frenchman to get some game-time soon.
And tonight’s clash with Fulham is the ideal opportunity for Moyes to give Diop some action.
The Frenchman joined West Ham from Toulouse in the summer of 2018 for around £25 million (The Express).
Diop initially made a huge impact at the London Stadium, but his form nosedived last season.
He needs to get back to his best. And sitting on the bench will not help him one little bit.
West Ham should have more than enough to hurt Fulham tonight, and won’t necessarily need Cresswell’s attacking threat.
The clash with the Cottagers is the ideal time to get some Diop some much-needed minutes. And resting Cresswell at the same time will be a smart move with a long and challenging season lying ahead.
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