After suffering an injury, West Ham United defender Nayef Aguerd is expected to return to the Morocco team for their away World Cup qualifying match against Tanzania, according to Claret & Hugh.
The news outlet stated on November 17 that the former Rennes defender, who sustained a concussion in the 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest on November 12, will be eligible to play in the game.
Though he is eager to join the Morocco squad for a crucial match, it is said that the Hammers would much rather he stay in London before the crucial Premier League match against Burnley at Turf Moor next weekend.
Given that Fifa’s concussion protocol differs from Premier League protocol, it seems Aguerd will be permitted to play in the game if necessary.
Nothing to see
Given the potential long-term harm and the need for rest following the injury, West Ham United’s optimism that the Moroccan would remain in London is reasonable.
Aguerd is free to play for his country on Tuesday, but it’s unfortunate that the international situation is different. Premier League players must miss two weeks of action before returning to action for their clubs.
However, it is concerning that despite his injury, the player and his country believe he is ready to play, and considering Morocco has just one match this international window, they could have done without him.
A break might have given Aguerd the chance to work with the West Ham coaching staff on particular areas of his game and improve his fitness.
Given that Kurt Zouma is still recovering from injury, David Moyes and West Ham United will be praying Aguerd escapes that pivotal match unscathed. An injury to him would be devastating.