West Ham manager David Moyes has given a Covid-19 update ahead of the Hammers’ Carabao Cup quarter-final tie versus Spurs.
The Irons’ weekend match versus Norwich was postponed due to a Covid-19 outbreak in the Canaries camp. It is believed West Ham players went to training instead of playing.
Speaking in his pre-match conference, Moyes said, “We have got one or two with the virus.”
West Ham boss, David Moyes, provided details about the current Covid-19 situation at the club.
Team News
West Ham are struggling with injuries, especially in defence, at the moment so it will be a relief to hear that no players have the virus and that the much anticipated match is expected to go ahead.
The Hammers will be without Kurt Zouma (who is recovering ahead of schedule) and Angelo Ogbonna through injury. Craig Dawson and Issa Diop will be the centre-backs.
There is hope Aaron Cresswell may return after a back injury to replace Arthur Masuaku.
‘Czech Mate’, Vladimir Coufal, who was controversially sent off in the 2-0 defeat to Arsenal, will be suspended.
As a result, at right-back Harrison Ashby may have to start unless Ben Johnson makes a quicker than expected recovery that reports say could be possible.
Covid-19 Influence
There has been a big increase in cases amongst Premier League clubs recently, this has led to many matches being postponed including three of Tottenham’s games (they also had another called off due to heavy snow).
Spurs looked fresh and energetic in their 2-2 draw versus Liverpool on Sunday. Meanwhile, West Ham seemed leggy in recent weeks perhaps struggling with the extra demands the Europa League campaign has brought.
Trophy Hopes
With West Ham going strong in all competitions, Moyes ended his press conference saying, “I’d love to win a trophy. It would be a great achievement. I don’t want to be a side who win a trophy and then don’t win anything for 20 or 30 years.”
He continued, “There’s a growing process where you have to build your team and club up to be competitive in all competitions. I wouldn’t want to win the League Cup and be near the bottom three in the Premier League for instance.”
Moyes shows he is taking the cups seriously which will be music to West Ham fans’ ears, “We’ve tried to prioritise throughout the season. We’re in all the competitions and I’d love to stay in them.”