CandH Exclusive by Hughie Southon
Craig Dawson may well be leaving the club before tomorrow night (Thurs) and is currently in conversation with the club who remain desperate to keep the central defender.
But we understand that the 32 year old has made it clear he has some family problems which would be eased or eradicated by a move back to, or closer to, the north having started his career at Rochdale.
That would allow him to commute to and from a new club on a daily basis.
It is a very tricky situation for West Ham who will be left with Kurt Zouma, Thilo Kehrer and Angelo Ogbonna available whilst Nayef Aguerd remains injured; although Ben Johnson would be available as emergency cover.
Should talks with the club go the wrong way, Dawson – who has only a year left on his deal – will be looking for a club closer to his northern roots whilst the Hammers will be involved in a last day hunt for a central defender on loan.
That could well lead them to Southampton’s Jan Bednarek
As a supporter, it is such a frustrating situation, due to Craig having become a defensive rock to us, not to mention a real goal threat from set pieces too. Like a fine wine, he seems to be getting better with age and without this issue having cropped up, he may have gone on to finish his career with us.
I do sympathise with him, but I wonder how often this situation occurs with other footballers. Quite a bit I would imagine. Wasn’t Payet’s departure down to similar family problems?
It would be a shame if Craig Dawson moved on right now – he’s a very good player. Craig had several years at West Brom, so a transfer to Aston Villa or nearby Wolves makes sense.
I wish him well, but hope he stays until at least the end of the season.
Having said that, I’d like to see us sign the excellent Jan Bednarek from Southampton. Add him to Zouma, Kehrer, Aguerd and with Ogbonna’s fitness being carefully managed at 34, that’s a strong central defence, whatever the combination. Wan Bassaka would be a great addition for his versatility as well. Let’s see what happens by tomorrow night.