Garth Crooks was full of praise for West Ham defender Craig Dawson following the Irons 2-1 win against Everton in what could be a huge three points for the east London side.
Writing in his Team of the Week column, the BBC Sport pundit was impressed by the professionalism of the 31-year-old centre-back, who once again was in top form for David Moyes’ side in a crucial Premier League fixture.
The former Watford defender has been key to West Ham’s incredible journey from a midtable club to a European contender, with Dawson being a regular over the past two seasons for the Hammers as the Irons prepare for a UEFA Europa League quarter-final this week against Lyon.
Indeed, Dawson’s defensive performances have been nothing short of sensational in recent months, and for Crooks, the West Ham defender’s form has been instrumental in their rise up the English top-flight.
The former Tottenham attacker wrote: “This player is about as professional as it gets. Craig Dawson gave what was another mature performance against an Everton side who had their moments. Dawson has been around for some time but I can’t recall the defender ever letting one of his clubs down.
Crooks added: “Yes, he has made the occasional error, haven’t we all, but he’s been one of the most consistent defenders in the game. West Ham currently find themselves flying high in the league and competing in the latter stages of the Europa League and Dawson looks totally at ease with it all.”
Dawson’s West Ham performances have been the difference between midtable and Europe
West Ham’s transfers under Moyes have been as shrewd as they come, yet Dawson’s move from Watford to the London Stadium has arguably been one of the best the Scottish manager has pulled off during his time in the English capital.
The 31-year-old has been nothing short of incredible considering how little West Ham paid for Dawson, and the defender’s performances have arguably been the difference between midtable finishes for the Hammers and their recent European finish last season.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
