West Ham United manager David Moyes faces a ‘tricky’ situation with Craig Dawson’s wish to leave the club in January, says journalist Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Exit seemed set

The centre-back seemed set to make the Premier League switch to Wolverhampton Wanderers this summer as he sought a move to be closer to his family in Cheshire.

However, with the Hammers failing to secure Jan Bednarek as a replacement, the east London outfit backtracked on allowing Dawson to leave for the Midlands outfit.

Despite this, Irons insider ExWHUemployee has revealed the 32-year-old may still be granted his wish, meaning he could leave the club in January.

The Latest: Jones reacts

Jones believes Moyes is in a difficult situation with the defender; as while he does want to keep him with the squad, it is always hard to retain someone who doesn’t want to be there.

Speaking with GiveMeSport about whether the Hammers will sanction his exit in January, the journalist said:

“It’s a tricky one but they might, yes.

“I think West Ham would like him to stay, ideally, but they are going to be pretty respectful to whatever Dawson wants at this stage.”

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/west-ham-latest-updates-2/" title="West Ham latest updates!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

The Verdict: Likely to leave

Having failed to make a single appearance in the Premier League so far this season, Dawson, who has been described by teammate Michail Antonio as 'unbelievable', may be disgruntled that he hasn’t been required anywhere near as much as he would have been told when his proposed move to Wolves fell through.

Moyes would have been worried about a lack of defensive cover following last season’s injury escapades, which saw Dawson as the only senior centre-back available for selection at one stage in the season.

Thus, when the 32-year-old was called upon, he demonstrated his ability to perform at the highest level. As per WhoScored, the defender averaged 4.1 clearances, 2.8 aerial duels won and 1.5 blocks per game in the English top-flight last season - clearly earning his £52,000 weekly salary.

Dawson's future may rest on the fitness of his fellow centre-backs come January.