Premier League

Our View: West Ham ace Aaron Cresswell’s form is a real concern, but Moyes’s hands are tied

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Aaron Cresswell joined West Ham from Ipswich Town in the summer of 2014, for a fee believed to be worth £3.75 million (The Sun).

The 30-year-old has been a fantastic servant for the Hammers, making 203 appearances in all competitions for the east London outfit.

But there have been signs this season that his powers are waning.

Cresswell’s pace seems to have completely gone since he returned from injury. And considering the fact that he is only 30, that should be a real concern for West Ham.

West Ham United v Southampton FC - Premier League
Aaron Cresswell (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)

The problem that David Moyes has, however, is that Arthur Masuaku is Cresswell’s backup. And the 26-year-old has hardly covered himself in glory since joining the Hammers way back in 2016.

The former Ipswich Town left-back always puts in a shift, and works hard in every match without fail. But the quality just hasn’t been there.

He is often skinned down the left hand flank, with quicker players finding it easy to get past him.

In 22 Premier League games this season, Cresswell has made 15 fouls, zero last man tackles, and has won just 50% of his individual duals (premierleague.com).

West Ham United v West Bromwich Albion - FA Cup Fourth Round
Aaron Cresswell (Photo by James Griffiths/West Ham United FC via Getty Images)

Last season, he made 20 league appearances, and in those games he racked up just two fouls, one last man tackle and won 62% of his duals (premierleague.com).

So it is clear to see that there has been a decline in the left-back’s performances this term.

David Moyes must address this issue over the summer.

Signing a new left-back should be near the top of the Scot’s priority list.

There is no reason why Cresswell shouldn’t be kept as part of the West Ham squad. But he quite simply must not be starting every week next season. Especially if the Hammers retain their Premier League status.