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Why West Ham should make a move for Joe Worrall

According to Nottinghamshire Live, West Ham are planning a summer swoop for Nottingham Forest defender Joe Worrall.

The 23-year-old centre-back has established himself as Forest’s first-choice defender this term, following an impressive loan spell with Rangers last season.

Worrall has been crucial in Forest’s pursuit of the Championship play-offs this season and has become a regular feature in Sabri Lamouchi’s side, featuring in all of their 37 league games so far. Despite being a defender, Worrall has also contributed to his side with one goal and three assists in the process. This gives a clear indication of his attacking abilities.

Joe Worrall of Nottingham Forest reacts during the Sky Bet Championship match between Blackburn Rovers and Nottingham Forest at Ewood Park on October 01, 2019 in Blackburn, England.
Joe Worrall of Nottingham Forest reacts during the Sky Bet Championship match between Blackburn Rovers and Nottingham Forest at Ewood Park on October 01, 2019, in Blackburn, England. (Getty Images)

The Nigel Doughty academy product has managed an impressive 13 clean sheets in the Championship, making him a key player within the squad. Despite being young, Worrall has made 95 appearances for Forest across all competitions. His performances haven’t gone unnoticed with Premier League side West Ham now hot on his trail.

Worrall can offer West Ham strength in their defence

West Ham boss David Moyes is planning to bolster his squad ahead of next season. He is keen on landing a young and upcoming talent like Worrall, the report claims.

The Hammers have had a difficult campaign in the Premier League so far and are fighting for their survival in the top-flight. They East-London side are just two spots above the relegation zone, having conceded 50 goals from 29 league outings.

West Ham manager David Moyes reacts on the touchline. (Getty Images)
West Ham manager David Moyes reacts on the touchline. (Getty Images)

The centre-back partnership involving youngster Issa Diop and veteran Angelo Ogbonna has been hugely inconsistent this season that has seen West Ham suffer a dip in the rankings.

Moreover, Ogbonna turned 32 last month and is clearly not in the prime of his career anymore. West Ham also have Fabian Valbuena and Goncalo Cardoso as a back-up but the former has been far from impressive, managing just 13 league appearances this season.

Summer signing Cardoso, on the other hand, is yet to feature for them and lacks experience. Considering all this, a move for a rising talent like Worrall seems like a wise decision by the Hammers.

They should rope in Worrall, who has been excelling with his solid and consistent displays at the back for the Championship outfit.

West Ham defender Angelo Ogbonna turned 32 last month.
West Ham defender Angelo Ogbonna turned 32 last month. (Getty Images)

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Verdict

Apart from Ogbonna and Diop, it is clear that West Ham lack an established defender in their side. Signing Worrall will only make them stronger. It will also offer manager Moyes an extra option next season. Having proved himself consistently for Forest and Rangers, Worrall is nothing short of experience and would be a great fit at the London Stadium.