Skip to content

Patrice Evra has a 'chance' of making West Ham debut against Watford

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

David Moyes is hoping Patrice Evra'a experience will rub off on his other West Ham players.

David Moyes says there is a "chance" new signing Patrice Evra could make his West Ham debut against Watford on Saturday.

Evra, 36, completed his move to West Ham on Wednesday, signing a short-term contract until the end of the season.

He previously spent eight-and-a-half years at Manchester United - including the 2013/14 season alongside Moyes - and was sacked by Marseille earlier this season and banned by UEFA following an altercation with a supporter.

Moyes says there is a chance the former France international could make his debut at the London Stadium against Watford on Saturday in what would be his first appearance since November 2017.

Speaking ahead of the game, he said: "There's a chance. He's not too far away, he has been training.

"He played in November for Marseille so he's no different from someone who may have had a long 10 or 12-week injury. Sometimes getting back playing quickly is the best thing to do."

Moyes says Evra's leadership qualities made him an attractive proposition to the club but maintains he wants the defender to primarily concentrate on matters on the pitch.

Also See:

He said: "We like his other qualities but we got him here to play. Hopefully we can get him ready as quick as possible.

Arthur Masuaku is shown a red card by referee Chris Kavanagh
Image: Arthur Masuaku is serving a six-game ban for spitting in West Ham's FA Cup defeat to Wigan

"I know Pat well and I know what he is capable of. I know his leadership qualities and what he will bring to the dressing room. Also his level of professionalism is as good as anybody.

"He's seen and worked with the best so hopefully he can pass that on to the players.

"We needed him after Arthur [Masuaku]'s suspension. If Aaron Cresswell got injured we would be left short.

"We were so busy with other players we didn't do it in January. When the window closed and it was a bit calm we could get it done."