By Dave Langton
David Moyes will have to make a big call over the futures of both Aaron Cresswell and Craig Dawson.
The two defenders both have deals that expire in 2023 and there is a decision to be made over their respective deals. 
Both remain key players under Moyes, playing regularly in the backline, but the two are both the wrong side of 30.
Dawson turned 32 in May, while Cresswell will turn 33 in December.
That, of course, is no guarantee that their performances will diminish, with the pair both playing key roles in the club’s form this season.
But Moyes has repeatedly said that he would like to freshen up the squad, especially when it comes to lowering the average age of the squad.
There is a precedent as Angelo Ogbonna will be offered a new one-year deal that he is almost certain to sign, and he is also ageing, but there will be a decision to be made soon enough when it comes to Daws and Cresswell.
It’s all relative when it comes to age. Moyes has said he would like to lower the age of the squad yes, but he wasn’t talking about defenders because he has also said that defenders are often better when they are older and more experienced. It could be different if they have had a career threatening injury of course, like Ogbonna who is now trying to make a comeback at the age of 34. Van Dyke has done it though. I think he must be in his 30s by now. Thiago Silva playing for Chelsea at 37. Dawson is only a youngster in comparison. Think he’s got a few more years in his legs yet.
Would 100% make sure they get at least another 2 years. Cresswell is almost a vice captain in the squad and Dawson has been incredible, especially last year. They’re both leaders and no amount of young blood or testosterone can replace positive influence. I do think Cresswell looks a bit leggy and I wish there was another position we could move him to but this is the fittest West Ham team I’ve ever seen, so I have confidence (injuries permitting) we can keep these guys up and running for a little bit longer yet.