David Moyes admits that he is not ready to throw Nayef Aguerd into Premier League action but he could be in the squad for tomorrow night’s Europa Conference League clash with Silkeborg.
The central defender has not been available for the Irons since sustaining a serious ankle injury in pre-season against Rangers.
However, he could now make his first competitive appearance against the Danish side, potentially as a substitute.
However, the Morocco international will not be included in the squad for this weekend’s clash with Manchester United, as Moyes is unsure if he is ready to play in the Premier League as he continues his recovery.
Speaking ahead of the Silkeborg game, Moyes told reporters, as per the club’s official website: “He’s not in contention for Sunday but we’re hoping to have him in the squad tomorrow, one way or another.
“What will he bring? I don’t want to put too much on him. I want to give him time. But he’s a good reader of the game. He’s quick and he’s good in the air. But because he’s not played any Premier League games, it’s difficult for us to give an overall judgement.
“I don’t think he’s ready for the Premier League games but we’ll see for this European games. He’s keen and he’s a good character. I’ve got to say, we think he’s a really stylish footballer.”
Still, Moyes is excited about the prospect of Aguerd returning to fitness, and the Hammers boss believes that he can offer real balance to the backline when he is fully up and running.
He added: “He will give us, hopefully, a natural left-footed balance at centre-back. I see Nayef giving us something we’ve not had.
“The Moroccan national team have been great. He did all his early rehab with them. We’re really looking forward to having him back. He’s an enthusiastic guy who is top in the dressing room.
“I want to get him used to the standards and physicality of the Premier League.”