West Ham Sign Defender Craig Dawson on Loan from Watford

12 October 2020 21:42

West Ham have announced the signing of defender Craig Dawson from Watford on a season-long loan with an option to buy at the end of the campaign.

The Hammers have been attempting to bring in a new centre back throughout the transfer window but numerous bids for top target James Tarkowski were rejected by Burnley, while Chelsea's Fikayo Tomori turned down the opportunity to join the club on loan.

“I’m delighted to be here and really looking forward to being back in the Premier League and working with the manager and group of lads,” Dawson told West Ham's official website. “I’m really excited and looking ahead to the game at the weekend.

“I can’t wait to get started and share my experience. We’ve got a lot of experienced lads here anyway and to be joining this group of players is an exciting prospect, so I can’t wait.

“It’s a talented group and I can add competition to that back line, so hopefully I can slot straight in with the lads and help them improve their game as well.

West Ham is obviously a massive club and London Stadium is a great home stadium and hopefully the fans are back in there soon cheering us on.”

Dawson suffered the drop with Watford at the end of the 2019/20 campaign | Julian Finney/Getty Images

Dawson has made 184 Premier League appearances across spells with West Brom and Watford, and David Moyes emphasised the importance of the 30-year-old's experience in addition to his defensive qualities.

“I’m delighted to welcome Craig to the Club," Moyes added. "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 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.”

Source: 90min