West Ham United feel defender Nayef Aguerd could be 'season defining' if he can return from the World Cup unscathed.

The Lowdown: Injury struggle

When Aguerd made the summer switch to the London Stadium, there was genuine excitement over the addition of a ball-playing left-footed central defender.

It was a statement of intent from the Hammers, who looked as though they would profit from the signing in terms of boosting the possession ranks, with his ability to play out from the back seemingly the missing piece.

Fast forward to the present day and Aguerd has made just one Premier League appearance, after suffering injury in a pre-season game against Rangers.

The Latest: Hammers hopes boosted

According to Dean Jones, West Ham feel they can majorly benefit for the second half of the season if Aguerd can get through this World Cup with Morocco injury-free.

Having just recovered in time, getting minutes in the 26-year-old's legs is a must, with the star capable of transforming the Hammers' campaign.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones said: "They’ll probably have a couple of heart in mouth moments if he goes down at all. They are desperate to get this lad regularly into their team.

“They really feel it could be season-defining if he can have a long run in the side for them, so they just want him to get through this World Cup unscathed.”

The Verdict: A 'new' signing

If Aguerd can stay fit and register consistent minutes for Morocco, his presence at the London Stadium will be akin to that of a new signing.

His injury that occurred early on in his Irons career was genuinely misfortunate, but he has the opportunity to almost restart the season upon his return from international duty - something that will only benefit David Moyes and co.