Winston Reid could be a vital player for West Ham this season

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West Ham defender Winston Reid is just two weeks away from returning to first-team training, according to Football.London.

The 31-year-old has not played for the Hammers since March 2018.

And considering their current problems in central defence, Reid’s return will be welcome. He might just turn out to be a vital player for West Ham this season.

Manuel Pellegrini is clearly undecided as to what his best centre-back partnership is.

The Chilean started the season with Fabian Balbuena partnering Issa Diop, but Angelo Ogbonna has replaced the Paraguayan in recent weeks.

The Italian has been far from convincing, however, and if Reid can regain full fitness quickly, he has a real opportunity to step in and reestablish himself as a regular member of West Ham’s starting XI.

The New Zealand international is a real leader, and the Hammers have really missed his organisational and communication skills at the back.

Despite his recent injury problems, Reid is still in good shape physically. And as long as he is not rushed back, he still has plenty of years left ahead of him.

The 31-year-old is vastly experienced. And Issa Diop would surely be able to learn a lot from the Kiwi.

Without overhyping his impending return, Reid could be a real asset for West Ham this season.

And Hammers fans will just be praying that the centre-back can avoid another serious injury, because this might just be his last chance saloon at the London Stadium.