West Ham United are in the midst of a crucial period of their season in the Premier League and Europa League.

Tonight sees the Hammers take on Lyon in the Europa League once again to try and secure their place in the semi-finals.

While the east London club are also aiming to finish as high up the Premier League table as they can, it seems as though they may have to continue their efforts without one of their key figures.

What's the news?

According to a recent tweet from journalist Jack Rosser, Irons defender Kurt Zouma is set to have "further scans" on an ankle injury he picked up during the 2-0 defeat against Brentford at the weekend.

Additionally, and rather worryingly, the Evening Standard reporter added that there is "some fear" that the Frenchman could be ruled out for the remainder of the season.

Since arriving at the London Stadium last August from fellow Premier League side Chelsea in a £29.8m deal, the centre-back has become a vital player for David Moyes. With 26 appearances to his name across all competitions, this shows how important he has been for his new club.

Moyes will be devastated

To highlight how impressive the 27-year-old has been for West Ham, he is currently the highest-rated centre-back in Moyes' squad for his performances in the Premier League and Europa League according to WhoScored.

Also, with more clearances made in the league than any of his team-mates (123), the former Chelsea colossus has also won 73.9% of his duels in the current campaign, a higher success rate than any other Irons player to have been involved in more than five duels.

Taking all this into account, it's safe to say that if the defender is ruled out for the rest of the season, it would be a devastating blow for West Ham and Moyes.

With that in mind, it seems as though the Hammers boss will have to make do with the other defensive options he has at his disposal and hope that they can maintain their fitness until the season comes to an end.

In other news: Moyes can form “dangerous” duo as GSB plot bid for £25m gem who could “explode” at WHU