West Ham United boss David Moyes: 'Patrice Evra deserves some leeway'

West Ham United boss David Moyes has suggested that he has been pleased with Patrice Evra's contribution since joining the Hammers earlier this season.

Evra has made just four appearances in the Premier League, while the veteran left-back was hauled off midway through the second half against Manchester City last weekend.

However, despite some criticism from supporters, Moyes has hailed the influence of Evra and says that the Frenchman's professionalism has remained at a high level.

At a press conference, the 55-year-old told reporters: "He's been fantastic around the club, his level of professionalism is at an unbelievable level. The way he goes about his work, hes great in the dressing room, the people who have worked with him.

"I actually think you look at the games we've played him in, two have been against teams in a Champions League final and the other one against the runaway winners of the Premier League.

"I think you can give him a little bit of leeway, two of the games have been top games and we play him in those games because we understand how good he is because he is used to playing in big games throughout his career."

Evra could be replaced by Arthur Masuaku for Saturday's fixture against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium.