Emerson is eager to re-join the West Ham United line-up for Sunday’s crucial Premier League match against Crystal Palace, as the team strives to secure European competition for next season.

His absence was keenly felt during Thursday night’s Europa League game against Leverkusen. In a closely contested match, Emerson’s presence might have tipped the scales in favour of West Ham but his return now is vital.

Emerson’s improvement this season has been startling and he’s become a key player. His partnership with Lucas Paqueta has been particularly impressive down the Hammers left flank.

Emerson is key to West Ham’s chances

Looking ahead, Emerson and his Brazilian teammate Lucas Paquetá will be vital for the remainder of the season. Paquetá commented, “It’s great to play alongside Emerson. He understands my playing style and reads my body language, which really enhances our connection on the field.

“We also played together at Lyon, and even though we weren’t as close back then as we are now, our understanding was evident. Having him on the team is a huge boost, not just for individual support but for the overall team dynamic. We share a strong bond off the field too; we’re like family.”

For West Ham to qualify for European competition again, the synergy between Emerson and Paquetá will be crucial, starting with the upcoming match against Palace.

David Moyes has updated on the condition of his walking wounded following West Ham United’s UEFA Europa League quarter-final second leg against Bayer Leverkusen and ahead of their upcoming Premier League game at Crystal Palace.

Winger Jarrod Bowen, who played the entire 90 minutes in West Ham’s 1-1 draw against Bundesliga champions Leverkusen — a result that led to a 3-1 aggregate loss — and assisted Michail Antonio’s early goal, will be closely monitored before the game at Selhurst Park. His participation was uncertain until the last moment, Moyes revealed, and Bowen’s condition will be assessed again following the tough fixture.

Defender Nayef Aguerd had to leave the field just before halftime during the Leverkusen match and, along with recently side-lined players Konstantinos Mavropanos, Alphonse Areola, and Kalvin Phillips, will undergo medical evaluations at Rush Green.

Last man standing as Moyes inspects his wounded and fatigued squad

“Jarrod was nearly side-lined last night; he even required an injection to play,” Moyes stated. “We’ll need to evaluate his reaction to that treatment. It was crucial having him available.”

“Nayef twisted his ankle, and we haven’t fully assessed him yet. Both he and Dinos will be checked, and we’ll have more information before the weekend,” he added.

Moyes also shared good news about young midfielder George Earthy, who has recovered from a head injury sustained against Fulham last weekend, though he is still not cleared for play.

Additionally, Emerson and Lucas Paquetá are expected to be back in the squad against Palace after missing the last game due to suspensions.

“George is doing well; he’s been around the training ground and is looking good, but we are sticking to the required protocols,” Moyes said. “Having the two boys back from suspension is also a boost.”