By Hughie Southon
West Ham look set to continue their struggle at central defence as they approach the game against Aston Villa this weekend.
The Hammers looked all at sea against Brighton with both Kurt Zouma and new signing Thilo Kehler both struggling as the Hammers lost 0-2. Both appeared to be at fault for the penalty with Zouma being held responsible for the second.
However, we understand that whilst Craig Dawson has returned to training this week it is unlikely he will be involved at Villa Park.
There remains an outside chance he could be on the bench but with no pre-season behind him manager David Moyes is unlikely to be taking any sort of chance.
That may see Ben Johnson return to central defence athough neither he or the new Kehrer boy look a proper answer whilst Zouma too has not been in great form
New signing Emerson will come into the frame for a start although Aaron Cresswell was one of the few better performers against Brighton.
Why not put Rice at CB, bring Palmieri in at LB and move Cressie up to DM. Just a thought.
Cresswell as DM? Are you serious?
Pardon. I was obciously talking about the left back position – EMERSON’S position. Sorry if it confused you
I think Moyes fancies the wink back system and has done for quite a while now. The recent signing of Emerson I think proves this. I can see it being Kehrer Zouma Cresswell as a back 3. Emerson left wing back and either Johnson or Coufal as right wing back.
Cressy might make a good wing baxk. It’s been the defending side of his game that’s not been so good since the back end of last season.
Not sure we can judge Kehrer on one game , the mistake was made well before his foul . Cresswell might perform with competition. Just a thought
Better Johnson as RB or RWB. Had a nightmare at CB. Would be a great oppo for the new Emerson, if fit, and give Cressie a rest.