Aaron Cresswell has been impressed by West Ham United’s summer recruitment and believes the depth of the squad will be key as the Hammers seek to battle both in Europe and the Premier League this season.
David Moyes’ side face a trip to Stamford Bridge on Saturday 3 September, before their UEFA Europa Conference League group-stage kickstarts when FCSB visit London Stadium on the following Thursday.
And Cresswell is confident the Hammers can challenge on both fronts this campaign as a busy fixture list starts in west London.
“Last year we had a smaller squad,” he said. “We have certainly added a lot of new faces this year. There is going to be a lot of games this season – and hopefully we can be even stronger.”
One such arrival is Lucas Paquetá, who joined West Ham United from Lyon. Cresswell admitted he was impressed with the showing of the Brazil midfielder, as the new Hammers No11 made his debut in Claret and Blue at London Stadium last Wednesday.
“I think he is a fantastic player,” added Cresswell. “We played against Lyon in the Europa League [last season]. I thought technically he was very good. It is still early doors - he has time to gel and get to know the boys. I am sure as the season goes on, he will become even better.”
Just one shy of 300 appearances in east London, Cresswell is well-accustomed to a London Derby against Chelsea.
His best moment against Saturday’s opponents came at Stamford Bridge in 2019 when the Hammers vice-captain ran on to a Pablo Fornals pass, before he drove home the winner – a fierce effort in the bottom corner with his weaker foot.
And Cresswell is backing the Hammers to grab another memorable victory in west London this weekend.
“The start was not great from our part,” remarked Cresswell, honestly. “In terms of the Chelsea game and the European games coming up – they are matches we are ready for.”
