Reece Oxford garnered critical praise when he played a starting – and starring – role in West Ham’s 2-0 win at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium on Sunday, but the Manchester Evening News have now revealed he could have been playing in a different colour, had he taken up the option to join any of Manchester United, Liverpool or even The Gunners last season.
All three red giants were keen on bringing in the 16-year-old last season, who impressed playing in an age group for all those up until under-21’s, as well as being around the first team. It came as a shock to many, including him, when he was selected for the starting line-up at The Emirates, but he impressed on his debut as his team won 2-0 to get the Premier League campaign off to a flying start.
Tottenham also rejected the chance to sign him, not spotting the talent that three other clubs managed to see. However, Oxford chose staying at Upton Park over moving to the north-west or to The Gunners and signed his first professional deal seven months ago. If he continues to impress, a second one might not be far off.
Speaking after his starring debut, Oxford said, “West Ham have been giving the young players who are coming through a chance.”
“Last season I was on the bench a few times, so I expected to be around the team again this season, but not starting against Arsenal.“
Meanwhile, new manager Slaven Bilic was full of praise for his new youth talent, saying “if Messi was in front of me, I’d be more fazed than Reece.”
“It was going to be a risk but he has got something. I am very proud of him. He is a part of this new generation.“
Reece Oxford turns 17 in December, an unreal achievement from such a young player.
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