According to a report from The Sun, it was stated that West Ham United defender Craig Dawson is being targeted by Wolverhampton Wanderers as they prepare a bid for bringing him to Molineux Stadium for free at the end of this season. It makes sense for the Wolves to approach him as he hasn’t signed a contract extension with the Hammers yet.
Dawson’s Campaign With West Ham United This Season
Dawson’s campaign with the Hammers has been plagued by injuries which explains why he is having a tough time at the East London club. The English defender has only found the back of the net in the conference league this season although he’s made eleven appearances for West Ham across all fronts.
The Rochdale-born sensation has still managed to make the most of his game time being consistent in his defensive half based on his averages of 1.3 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 3.3 clearances per game in the Premier League. He has also been tidy with his ball distribution after completing 80% of his attempted passes in the English top flight (stats vai whoscored).
Should Moyes Extend his Contract At London Stadium?
Dawson is a decent tackler of the ball as he can time his challenges well and remain composed in the backline. He can sense the danger quickly and make some important interceptions to secure the ball back for his team on the defensive third of the field. The English sensation usually clears his lines when in danger of being caught out at the back and remains adept in distributing the ball as well. Standing at 1.88m, he can use his strong frame to dominate his opponents in the air.
Dawson has done well to earn a regular starting spot in the playing XI and he remains a key player for the Hammers on the defensive end. However, at 32, he can only manage to play at a high level for a few years that is if he doesn’t sustain injuries like he has this season.
Thus, it doesn’t make sense for David Moyes to offer him a contract extension at the moment as he already has several defenders at his disposal. His exit would require Moyes to bring in another player but West Ham can manage to identify a decent replacement for him until the end of the season if they manage to save themselves from being relegated. Moyes should sanction his exit in the summer transfer window even if Dawson would leave for free.
