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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Jack Rosser

West Ham still targeting new centre-back despite Kurt Zouma’s imminent injury return, says David Moyes

Return imminent: West Ham will soon have Kurt Zouma back from a hamstring injury

(Picture: AFP via Getty Images)

West Ham boss David Moyes says he's still looking to add cover at centre-back this month despite Kurt Zouma's imminent return from injury.

The Hammers have been boosted by the news, revealed yesterday, that Zouma is set to return ahead of schedule from his hamstring injury sustained in early December against former club Chelsea.

It was expected that Zouma would be out until February, but the France international is now targeting a return against Manchester United next week.

Moyes, however, will also be without Angelo Ogbonna until the end of the season and is still on the hunt for a new face at the back.

"Kurt is doing well," said Moyes. "I couldn't give you an idea of exactly when he's going to back but I have to say he is doing well and I am looking forward to getting him back shortly if I can.

"We are just trying to get him correct and in the right condition so hopefully not too far away. We could probably do with some more cover after Angelo Ogbonna's season-long injury.

"If I can get Kurt back quickly that eases the pressure in central defensive areas. But we are always looking to strengthen here, we are always looking to find players who can help us or improve us. But Kurt coming back is good so the sooner we get him back the better."

Liverpool defender Nathaniel Phillips is available this month and has been considered by West Ham, though no move has been made as of yet.

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