Speaking to the press before today's crunch clash with Chelsea in the race for a Champions League qualifying spot, West Ham United manager David Moyes refused to rule out a return to action for Aaron Cresswell.

Cresswell, who has been out for the last fortnight with a hamstring problem, is currently among the plethora of Hammers first team players who are doubtful for this evening's match.

Moyes refuses to rule out Cresswell return

Indeed, Moyes remained cryptic as ever in regards to the fitness of some players, with no official timeframes put on returns for Michail Antonio, Declan Rice and Arthur Masuaku (football.london).

However, the Scotsman dropped a potentially promising update on Cresswell, saying the 31-year-old is edging nearer to fitness while refusing to rule out his inclusion today.

"He is getting closer, put it that way," explained the Irons manager in his pre-match press conference (via football.london).

"We will monitor it and see how he feels by tomorrow."

Transfer Tavern take

West Ham fans will find out today whether he is indeed able to return, but they could be hoping that Cresswell is available as soon as possible for the run-in.

The defender is a mainstay under Moyes when fit, having started 31 matches in the Premier League this season, whilst even averaging the most key passes per match out of any Irons player (WhoScored).

It is little surprise that he has earned plaudits for his performances over the 2020/21 season, with journalist Sam Delaney even dubbing Cresswell 'sensational' recently (U Irons Podcast via This is Futbol).

His return could come as a real boost if it happens today of all days as the race for Champions League football intensifies.

In other news: West Ham fans flocked ExWHUemployee's 'best news', find out more here.