West Ham have announced the signing of defender Craig Dawson on a season-long loan from Watford.
The experienced centre half, who is expected to be fourth-choice behind Angelo Ogbonna, Issa Diop and Fabian Balbuena at the heart of the Hammers defence, will be with the club at least until the end of the 2020/21 campaign.
Hammers manager David Moyes has been keen to strengthen his backline all summer after securing survival in the Premier League. The manager has brought in right back Vladimir Coufal from Slavia Prague for £6milliion and he made his debut in the 3-0 victory at Leicester City prior to the international break.
The Scotsman has now secured the 30-year-old Dawson to add even more experience to his defence.
Moyes said of Dawson’s arrival: “I’m delighted to welcome Craig to the Club. He is a fantastic professional with proven quality and experience in the Premier League.
“It’s no secret that we have been trying to add more quality to the squad in defensive positions, not only for the longer-term but also to ensure we are well protected right now, and the opportunity to bring in Craig on loan was an addition that will make the group stronger through this period.
“I know he will be a great addition to the dressing-room – he is a committed and determined character. We wish Craig all the best during his time here and I look forward to working with him for the rest of the season.”
Dawson has made 141 Premier League appearances across his career in the top flight and scored 14 goals.
West Ham do have the option to turn Dawson;’s loan deal permanent come the end of the season if it is deemed to be a success.
