West Ham in line for Angelo Ogbonna boost ahead of Everton clash | OneFootball

West Ham are set to be handed a major boost ahead of this weekend’s crucial Premier League encounter against Everton…

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According to the ever-reliable ExWHUemployee on Twitter, Angelo Ogbonna “should be back” as they welcome the Toffees to the London Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The 32-year-old was a surprise absentee on Monday night for their win over Burnley, missing the clash with a hamstring problem, but it is not thought to be serious.

Ogbonna had missed more than two months of the season with ankle problems, only returning against Newcastle United three weeks ago, and is in line to feature against Everton barring any late complications.

Big boost

This comes as a massive boost for David Moyes, who will undoubtedly be desperate to see the Italian back in action as soon as possible given that he has played an important role in the Irons’ campaign so far. Ogbonna has started 25 league matches for the Irons in 2020/21, winning 2.3 headers (fourth-best in current squad) and making 4.2 clearances per game (second-best).

West Ham are firmly in the face for a top four finish but could be six points adrift of Chelsea if they manage to pull off a victory over runaway league leaders and Champions League final opponents Manchester City this evening.

A win over Carlo Ancelotti’s side would keep the pressure on their London rivals heading into the final three matches of the season, and having Ogbonna available will certainly aid their chances substantially.

His presence will be needed against a player of Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s calibre. He has found the net 20 times in all competitions, including one against Aston Villa last time out.

However, the England international failed to score against the Hammers in their league battle earlier this campaign, and Ogbonna was partnering Craig Dawson that day.

Moyes will surely want more of the same, so he will be encouraged by the fact that he can slot the 32-year-old colossus straight back into the team, most likely in place of Issa Diop.

AND in other news, Moyes can repeat West Ham’s Lingard masterstroke by landing “exciting” £18m-rated gem…