Aaron Cresswell latest ahead of West Ham’s clash with Brighton | OneFootball

West Ham United are sweating over the fitness of Aaron Cresswell heading into tonight’s Premier League clash with Brighton and Hove Albion at the London Stadium…

What’s the latest?

The 31-year-old defender was forced off with a back injury in the 61st minute during the Irons’ 2-1 defeat to defending champions Manchester City on Sunday after he clattered into the post when making an impressive last-ditch goal-line clearance.

Speaking in his pre-game press conference manager David Moyes revealed that his trusty left-back was a doubt ahead of kick-off.

“We’ve got a doubt about Aaron Cresswell, but he’s been out today so we’re hopeful that he’s not too bad. We’ll see how he is,” he told reporters (via football.london).

Elsewhere, Claret and Hugh have claimed that Cresswell is facing a late fitness test this evening but the Scotsman will take no chances if he’s not good to go.

Who should play at left-back if Cresswell is out?

MASUAKU

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COUFAL

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JOHNSON

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Would be a big miss

This would be a big, big miss for the Hammers as the long-serving star is one of Moyes’ most influential and key players. He contributes at either end of the pitch and will be needed to combat the threat of Tariq Lamptey.

Last season, he led the way in terms of creativity, recording eight assists, whilst averaging 1.6 key passes per outing, via WhoScored.

An average of 1.1 tackles and 2.2 clearances per game this term suggests he’s doing his defensive duties rather efficiently and that makes him the best option to face the Seagulls’ arguably biggest dangerman.

Just last month, Cresswell’s form for West Ham in 2021/22 earned glowing praise from talkSPORT pundit and ex-Villa striker Tony Cascarino.

“Talk about unsung heroes; I think Cresswell has been brilliant for them at left-back this year. I thought as he gets older, his place would be in jeopardy – it’s not,” he said.

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Can you name all 10 ex-Hammers? First up... He assisted the first goal at the London Stadium but made only 8 appearances for the Irons, who is he?

Havard Nordtveit Gokhan Tore Pedro Obiang Jonathan Calleri

At the weekend, Lamptey was such a nuisance against Leeds United that Marcelo Bielsa had to sub his left-back, Junior Firpo, as he was walking a tight rope on a yellow card.

You’d imagine that if Moyes has to opt for the rarely-played Arthur Masuaku or one of Ben Johnson or Vladimir Coufal out of position, then it’s a disaster waiting to happen.