Plenty of Hammers fans were holding their breath on Saturday night, as they waited to discover the fate of Aaron Cresswell, who was stretchered off the field in a pre-season game against German side Karlsruher.

The young defender has been one of the most consistent performers for West Ham over the last two seasons and is fast becoming one of the best left backs in the league.

Now, the news has broken that the 26-year old will be out of action for four months minimum. With no cover at Cresswell’s position, Slaven Bilic will be forced into the transfer market to look for short term alternatives.

Fortunately for the Croatian manager, there are a number of fantastic options available at left back.

Here are five players that West Ham should consider when trying to replace Aaron Cresswell...

Jordan Amavi

A bright spark in what was a dismal season for Aston Villa, Jordan Amavi performed well in the short time he had in the first team at Villa Park last season before succumbing to injury.

The 22-year-old was a revelation in his native France and is thought to be a fantastic prospect. Amavi would be an astute short term replacement for Cresswell, with his lightning speed going forward and instinctual defending.

Andrew Robertson

One of the Championship’s best players last season, young Andrew Robertson has been the subject of interest from a number of Premier League suitors but remains with Hull as they get ready for their season back in the top flight.

The former SPFA Young Player of the Year is a phenomenal prospect at left-back, providing a dangerous offensive threat from deep combined with superb defensive abilities.

At just 22, Robertson would provide long term competition for Cresswell upon his return.

Jonas Hector

The standout full-back at Euro 2016, Jonas Hector has fast made a name for himself and is reportedly wanted by a number of Premier League clubs, including Liverpool.

The 26-year old is, first and foremost, and excellent defender but is also a sublime crosser of the ball and provided a number of assists for his current club Koln last season.

Hector would be a real coup for the Hammers but would likely want guarantees as to first team football even when Cresswell returns to full fitness.

Francois Moubandje

One of the most improved players in Ligue 1, Toulouse’s Francios Moubandje impressed with his consistent performances and attacking threat from the left.

The 26-year-old has forced his way into the Swiss national team, an impressive feat considering the outstanding Ricardo Rodriguez holds down the left back position for his country.

Moubandje would likely be available for a modest fee and would likely accept competition for his place once Aaron Cresswell returns from injury.

Kieran Gibbs

Lengthy injuries and the form of Nacho Monreal restricted Keiran Gibbs to just 15 league appearance for Arsenal last season, his lowest total since 2011.

With Monreal set to start the new season as first choice left back at the Emirates, Gibbs may want to look for another challenge to re-ignite his once promising career.

West Ham would be the ideal destination for the 26-year-old. Gibbs would likely flourish in a Slaven Bilic system, especially if he is given license to roam the left wing using his searing pace.