The Hammers boss is delighted to see one of his key players recognised with a call-up.
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has told the club’s official website that he is “very proud” of Aaron Cresswell after the defender was handed his first England call-up.
Hammers fans have long been calling for Cresswell to be given the international recognition they feel that he deserves after two seasons of superb, consistent performance.
The left-back was overlooked by Roy Hodgson for his Euro 2016 squad, much to the chagrin of many in East London.
However, he has finally been given his maiden call-up to the Three Lions squad by current interim boss Gareth Southgate, and will be hoping to win his debut in the friendly against Spain tonight.
Bilic has admitted his pride in seeing Cresswell finally rewarded, and stressed that the 26-year-old fully deserves his place in the squad.
The Croatian told the club’s website: “I am very proud of Aaron and he deserves it after the way he performed last season. It was not just people at West Ham saying it, but a lot of people outside the club. He had a great season and we hoped that he would go to the Euro finals during the summer but he didn’t make the squad.
“He has now come back from injury which was the first major injury of his career and he came back really good. He is playing very well and we are delighted that he got a call-up to the England squad. We are hoping he will be involved against Spain and we wish him all the best.”
Bilic admitted that Cresswell will face a battle to earn and hold down the regular left-back spot in the England side, given the quality of competition that he faces for the position.
However, he insisted that the former Ipswich Town man is one of the best left-backs in the Premier League, and voiced his belief that his star has what it takes to be a success for his country.
“For me he is one of the best left backs in the Premier League. The way he trains is fantastic and he is a great professional. He always gives his best and has improved a lot on his defending. With the ball he was always a top player with his crosses, movement and pace. He has a great left foot and is a top defender.
“He will want to stay in the squad now and it is now up to him. The competition there is very strong as Danny Rose is in top form and Ryan Bertrand is playing very well. Luke Shaw is back after a long injury and plays for a big club which always helps. But Cressy has now got a chance playing for West Ham and I am sure he will keep his place.”
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