Former Premier League attacking midfielder Joe Cole was full of praise for Craig Dawson after the defender gave West Ham the lead over Genk.
With half-time fast approaching and the game goalless heading into the break, Dawson rose highest from an Aaron Cresswell corner to give the Hammers the lead.
Albeit richly deserved for their showing in the first 45 minutes, David Moyes would’ve been delighted to see the 31-year-old give the hosts the upper hand on the scoreline.
Speaking on BT Sport, former West Ham ace Cole was lauding the experienced centre-back.
With Dawson, you have got to get someone blocking, if you give him a run-up and then a header, against anyone in Europe, he can sneak in. It’s fantastic, that’s what he is good at.
Second-half goals from defensive partner Issa Diop and in-form forward Jarrod Bowen made the evening more comfortable.
Overall, Dawson earned a 7.40 average Sofascore rating on the night as Moyes’ side remained top of Group H.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
West Ham in Europe would appear to be a match made in heaven.
Whilst Dawson is struggling to earn a starting berth in the Premier League, the English defender is making the Europa League his own.
A threat in both boxes, the former Watford man is now just two towering headers away from 50 goals in an impressive senior career.
