Vladimir Coufal: West Ham squad hit by ‘massive’ blow after injury update – pundit
West Ham have been dealt a “massive” blow with Vladimir Coufal ruled out through injury, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted the 29-year-old’s absence would be felt at both ends of the pitch.
As confirmed on Thursday evening (24 February), Coufal has undergone surgery on a groin injury.
The Irons did not suggest when the right-back will be back in action.
He missed the 1-1 draw with Newcastle, having come off in the 2-2 draw against Leicester City.
With West Ham stuttering in their pursuit of a top-four finish, Whelan admitted losing Coufal would be a sore one for David Moyes.
Reacting to the news, Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Massive. One of their star players in defence, he’s been fantastic since he’s come to the club.
“You’re vying for that fourth spot, trying to get into that Champions League, and also still in Europe as well. They’re fighting for lots of silverware in Europea and the FA Cup.
“These are big players that you need to have right now. He’s potent when it comes to the defensive work and the offensive work. He’s going to be sorely missed.
“His energy and control in defence sometimes helps a lot of the players out there. He’s going to be a massive miss.”
Coufal has played 26 times across all competitions this season, with 19 Premier League starts under his belt.
Ryan Fredericks started at right-back in his absence against Newcastle.
The Hammers also have 22-year-old Ben Johnson, who came off the bench versus the Magpies, to call upon.
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