An unlikely source got West Ham United over the line on Sunday afternoon, with Nayef Aguerd settling a 1-0 win over Southampton.
It had been nearly 18 months since Aguerd’s last career goal, although it was his smart finish that sent the Hammers out of the bottom three.
The Morocco international rose highest to guide Thilo Kehrer's free-kick past a helpless Gavin Bazunu and into the bottom corner.
His first-half effort was the decisive moment at London Stadium, one that capped his tenth straight league start in style.
“I am so happy,” the No27 exclaimed. “I am a defender so I always say if I get the chance to help the team, I will do it. I am really proud of the team because of what we showed today in front of our fans.”
And having last struck a goal for former club Rennes back in a 2-2 Ligue 1 draw with Troyes in October 2021, Aguerd was made to wait - even longer - before the celebrations could start.
The 26-year-old saw his jubilation in east London initially cut short by a lengthy VAR check that stretched into a fourth minute, before his goal was awarded.
“It was hard to get through those minutes,” Aguerd laughed. “But set-pieces are our weapon. We work very hard on them in training - it was a great delivery, and I was there to [head home].”
Having taken eleven points from Premier League wins over Everton, Nottingham Forest and Southampton, and draws with Chelsea and Aston Villa, the Irons remain unbeaten at home in 2023.
But, quickly, Aguerd and company’s attention to the next two league fixtures, with Newcastle United visiting London Stadium on Wednesday evening, before a trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham on Saturday.
Both sides occupy top-half positions in the Premier League table, with the Hammers, who now sit 14th, knowing the importance of continuing a positive start after the March international window.
As it stands, one point separates the Club from the sides that occupy the bottom three. For Aguerd, there is plenty of work to be done.
“We still have [important] games to play,” stated Aguerd, honestly. “It is three points yes, but every game is still a final for us.”
