David Moyes may be playing mind games over star Kurt Zouma’s speedy return but the truth is likely somewhere in the middle.
When it comes to West Ham and injuries nothing is ever straightforward.
While other clubs are very forthright and open with their injury updates on players, Moyes is very much old school and plays his cards close to his chest.
The Scot usually gives very little away on team news, injuries, transfers – pretty much anything.
But on the odd occasion he does open up, it is often by design and in the interests of trying to give him and his West Ham team an advantage rather than keep the press pack or fans happy.
West Ham were rocked at the start of the World Cup break when it was announced somewhat out of the blue that star defender Kurt Zouma required a knee operation.
West Ham’s official update on the injury and operation was vague. And that gave rise to speculation that Zouma would be out for the rest of West Ham’s season.
It was reassuringly reported that Zouma did not have a major operation and that the club are ‘hopeful he will be back in the squad quickly’.
That positive outlook was reinforced when Zouma was captured on video walking into West Ham’s Rush Green training base with no obvious issues recently.
Website Claret and Hugh stated that West Ham were hopeful Zouma will be back for the game against Wolves on January 14th.
But there was optimism yesterday when Moyes stated that “quick healer” Zouma is well ahead of schedule.
“Kurt Zouma’s doing really well, he’s probably ahead of schedule,” Moyes said in his pre-match presser.
“He is always someone who normally comes back pretty quickly so I’m hoping that he might not be too bad. I’m not sure yet, but I’ve got to say he’s recovering really well and he’s going well.”
That gave rise to suggestions Zouma might even be fit to face Arsenal on Boxing Day.
In the fiercely competitive Premier League, there are seriously fine margins between defeat and victory.
We know Moyes likes to leave opponents guessing and second guessing over injuries and team news – he is in the Sir Alex Ferguson mould when it comes to that aspect of management.
And this may be more Moyes mind games over star Zouma’s speedy return but the truth is likely somewhere in the middle.
Even with the best will in the world one would think Arsenal comes far too soon for Zouma.
But by planting the seed Moyes will have Mikel Arteta – who is facing a dilemma of who to play up front – in two minds over his own tactics.
By the same token, claims Zouma will be out for another three weeks now look outdated off the back of Moyes’ admission.
We think the truth will be – as it so often is – somewhere inbetween.
With absolutely crucial games against Brentford – in the league and cup – and Leeds coming up after Arsenal, don’t be surprised to see Zouma make his return for that spell.
The Frenchman has been criticised by some for his performances this season. But while it is no great compliment given the team’s awful form, he has actually been one of West Ham’s best and most consistent players.
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