West Ham defender Ogbonna given ’50/50′ chance to play v Everton
Everton could have been handed a boost with West Ham defender Angelo Ogbonna given a ’50/50′ chance of being fit for the clash this weekend.
The Italy international missed the Hammers’ recent Premier League fixture against Burnley after sustained a knock against Chelsea the week prior.
Now David Moyes could be without the 32-year old once again as he hosts his former club, with Everton desperate to get back to winning ways.
West Ham insiders Claret & Hugh broke the news regarding Ogbonna’s potential omission this weekend, claiming that both him and Arthur Masuaku have half a chance of playing.
Craig Dawson was joined by Issa Diop in place of Ogbonna against Burnley, with the Frenchman’s inclusion possibly giving Everton an edge, as he has struggled to impress throughout the campaign.
Potentially a huge boost
West Ham have often turned to Ogbonna as a reliable defensive option, with Declan Rice praising him for being at “another level” so his absence against Everton would provide the club with a sizeable boost.
The Hammers have suffered a minor dip in form in recent weeks but they are still largely playing well, meanwhile Everton are struggling to build any momentum, so any boost is a welcome boost at this point.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin will still have his work cut out for him though with Craig Dawson having hugely impressed after joining from Watford last summer.
If James Rodriguez is passed fit he’ll likely play a vital role in any potential success that Everton might have, with the Blues lacking creativity against Aston Villa.
The Colombian international playmaker will need to work his magic to ensure the Toffees get over the line, particularly with a place in Europe on the line.
West Ham will prove to be difficult opponents, and the clash at the London Stadium must be considered a must-win game, so Ogbonna’s potential absence can only be seen as a positive for Carlo Ancelotti’s men.
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