Ben Johnson has told Wednesday’s press conference – ahead of Thursday’s clash against Silkeborg – that West Ham teammate Nayef Aguerd is a “fantastic player” but has been incredibly “unfortunate” to be injured already.
Aguerd, 26, was West Ham’s first signing of the summer in a window that saw the Hammers bring in a number of new players. But the Algeria international is yet to make his competitive Hammers debut, due to an injury from pre-season.
The Morocco international, bought for north of £30million from Rennes, is close to a return from injury. An issue he picked up during a pre-season friendly against Rangers – in which the Gers secured an impressive 3-1 win at Ibrox.
But after more than two months of the 2022-23 campaign, Aguerd is now closing in on his debut. He is unlikely to be available from the start on Thursday night, but Johnson gave his verdict. He is impressed by the “unfortunate” star.
“He’s a great character, a fantastic guy. He likes to laugh a lot but he’s also extremely focused. It was so unfortunate, his injury, but his transition back to training has been a credit to him. We know he’s a fantastic player and a great guy.”
Johnson: West Ham teammate Aguerd is a fantastic player
It will be interesting to see the dynamic when Aguerd returns. The centre-back joined the Hammers and will had the intention of being first choice. But West Ham boast numerous options in the middle of their defence.
Angelo Ogbonna is back, Craig Dawson has remained, and Thilo Kehrer has since joined the club. Issa Diop has left, but Kurt Zouma remains. So, the Hammers have five excellent options at centre-back. Aguerd will have to wait.
But if he can cover ground and get back to his best quickly, he is likely to form a solid partnership alongside Zouma. Dawson and Ogbonna will have to warm the bench, while Kehrer may move to the right of the defence.
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