Having young players in any football team is important for success and with West Ham now using a number of youth players they could be the answer the team has been looking for.
The Europa League match against FC Lusitans was the perfect opportunity to test the new young stars. They had the chance to prove themselves and get some vital experience, and some have already proved that they will be a crucial part of the team this year. Out of the teenagers who played four caught the attention of fans. Josh Cullen played a good all round game keeping the ball flowing through midfield during attacks, whilst always providing a calm presence to pass the ball around when play was more relaxed.
Reece Oxford became the youngest ever player for the Hammers and while he was uncomfortable playing in midfield his true potential showed when moving next to James Tomkins. The reassurance of playing in position allowed his defensive discipline to come forward, proving everything he has to offer the club.
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Lewis Page was one of two stand out players of this youth team. He defended well when called upon but his real ability was highlighted by how he assisted Matt Jarvis to dominate the left wing. Overlapping and playing technical passes allowed for many dangerous crosses to float into the box constantly. He could easily be a back up for Aaron Cresswell and will definitely see more starting football, which will only see his ability grow.
The second was Reece Burke who was composed on the ball while defending the centre with Tomkins and played even better when he moved to right back. He constantly made runs out wide and provided a strong, dangerous option for the right flank. Having five Premier League appearances under his belt already showed how experience grows a player’s ability and dominance. All of these young players have the ability to keep playing first team football and each match they play will make them stronger.
The consistent energy and cheap price tag that younger players bring is fundamental to a good side when it is mixed with more experienced players. A constant theme during the Lusitans’ match was the confidence the young players got through the reassurance of older, more experienced players such as Tomkins and Jarvis.
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While young players energy and hunger to perform well are needed in a team so is the solidarity that experienced players bring to ensure simple mistakes are not made and to instruct youthful players during a match. Tomkins did this constructively and got a positive performance out of his younger teammates. It’s a hard balance to get right but teams like Manchester United and Arsenal have used their academy well to enhance their squad and allow for a constant, fast pressure by subbing them on late during matches. This is important for West Ham to continue doing and keep our talented youth here.
Last season West Ham had the 14th youngest squad with an average age of 27, this year the Hammers are 9th youngest with and average of 25. This will make the difference as West Ham have struggled to close out matches for years and having young, energetic players to see matches out, chase wins and dominate with pace from the start will be a welcome change.
Youth players will also ensure a good performance is put in every match throughout the season because they can increase the squad quickly. Being cheaper then older players and coming from the academy less negotiation is usually needed meaning more players can be signed quickly. A larger squad is a must for a solid performance to be made in the League and every cup competition. It will allow for more team rotation, give further options to mix the team up and deal with injuries more effectively.
Playing the younger outfit early will build their confidence and they will become part of the driving force to make sure games are won whether they are starting or closing a match out. We have already had a taster of what they can do and they will be the Hammers key to performing in every match of our jam-packed season.
