Craig Dawson will remain at West Ham after the Hammers hoped for replacement Jan Benarek decided to join Aston Villa ahead of us.
Dawson had been linked with both Villa and Wolves but eventually found himself in a position where, despite family problems, he was forced to stay at the London Stadium.
Our understanding is that he had hoped to return to the north, or nearer it, as a result of the personal situation and that Wolves had agreed a deal of £5.25 million for him with the Hammers.
However, when Bednarek decided that he was ready to agree a deal with Villa there was no way the Hammers could allow a Dawson move to happen.
David Moyse had seen the Southampton centre-back as the perfect replacement for 32-year-old Dawson but there will be any less commitment from the central defender who has become one of the most wholehearted players at the club and was a defensive rock last season.
This is really good news, he was immense for us last Season! 👍
When I heard the rumours about his possible departure I naturally assumed it was something to do with his Contract – possibly wanting longer than West Ham were prepared to offer, but Sky Sports were putting out last night it was all about his wish to move back to the Midlands where his family live! 🤔
This has got to be good news of sorts because as well as being a known quantity Craig is a very competent and dominant defender.
I wouldn’t question his professionalism to continue to perform for us when called but the part that concerns me is that the problems which initiated his desire to leave, probably still exist.
I think that this transfer window has to rank as one of the best in this club’s history and most certainly the best that I have known. Not just for the amount spent, but also the quality brought in.
But the speculation which I found most concerning was with Ashby being linked with a move to Newcastle. Are regular first-team opportunities available to youngsters at Liverpool, Chelsea, Man U or with any of the top clubs apart from in the cup competitions?
… and what is the success rate of our young players who have pushed for an exit and left?
Ngakia and Quina just being two examples. I would love to see a post on this subject Hugh?
It’s great news for us Hammers fans but perhaps not for Craig Dawson. As much as I can sympathise with Craig in his family issues, I am sure that every true Hammers fan is much relieved that he is still a West Ham player. I’m sure we all agree that Craig has been the ultimate professional and an absolute rock at the heart of our defence. We owe him much. Rock on Craig!