Whelan: ‘Absolute diamond’ Dawson has big role as West Ham plot blockbuster raid | OneFootball

Noel Whelan claims Craig Dawson still has a role to play at West Ham as the club targets a new central defender.

The former Leeds man, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insists Dawson could prove to be vital backup if nothing else.

As revealed by Football Insider on 26 May, West Ham have prioritised the signing of a new, top-class centre back this summer.

The 31-year-old joined the Hammers on loan from Watford last summer but the move was made permanent after a string of impressive displays.

After making his league debut in December, Dawson only missed one more game before the season finished.

This was an enforced break after he was sent off during his side’s 3-2 loss to Newcastle United.

With Dawson’s help, West Ham qualified for the Europa League and Whelan insists Dawson can play a role as his side face a more congested fixture list next season.

“Well Dawson was an absolute diamond find by David Moyes,” Whelan told Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge.

“He’s been one of those players that West Ham needed. That English-based player who knows the game and what’s required.

“He’s a talker, he’s a leader but again, he’s pushing towards the end of his career.

“That being said, when you make it to Europe, you also need really good backup.

“You can go into the market and buy internationals and they will expect rotation these days.”

Dawson made 22 Premier League appearances for the Hammers and scored three goals.

Last season, West Ham only lost five league games when the defender was in from the start.

In other news, Kieran Maguire claims the Irons could be set for “amazing” £40million windfall.