West Ham news: Pundit verdict on Aaron Cresswell starting v Sevilla after update
Alex McLeish has tipped David Moyes to start Aaron Cresswell for West Ham against Sevilla ahead of a late fitness test.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Scotland manager insisted “you can see the difference” when the 32-year-old is missing from the side.
Speaking at his press conference on Wednesday (16 March), David Moyes confirmed Cresswell and Michail Antonio are both fighting to be fit for tonight’s game against Sevilla.
He revealed he had not yet chosen his starting XI as he gives the duo time to recover from their respective injury blows.
The pair both limped off in Sunday’s 2-1 win over Aston Villa, with Cresswell replaced by Ryan Fredericks.
However, McLeish suggested the left-back would keep his place in the starting XI if he passes the required tests.
“You always welcome back your regulars into the team,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“You know when one of the nucleus of the team is either suspended or is injured, then you can see the difference in the team.
“The replacement may not be at that level but they might be very close to it. For someone to challenge Cresswell and challenge in other positions, people need games.
“That’s when they get their chance and that’s when they make it count.
“But Cresswell is their first choice. He’s one part of the nucleus of that team.”
Cresswell has played 29 times across all competitions for West Ham this season.
He played 57 minutes before coming off against Aston Villa.
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