Championship side Ipswich Town had scouts present at West Ham’s Premier League 2 fixture with Newcastle last night in the form of manager Mick McCarthy and his assistant Terry Connor.
Twitter: #itfc asst mgr Terry Connor watching #whufc U23 v #nufc U23 on Mon…Adam Armstrong among possible targets on show (@scoutsattending)
The Hammers ran out 3-1 winners at Dagenham and Redbridge’s Victoria Road thanks to two goals from Antonio Martinez sandwiched either side of a Marcus Browne strike. Tom Heardman grabbed a consolation goal for the Magpies.
According to Ipswich Town source TWTD.co.uk, young winger Martin Samuelsen is a player McCarthy is looking to sign this summer on loan before the transfer deadline passes next week.
Academy manager and Head of Player Development, Terry Westley said after the game that it was the best his side have played in all his time at the club.
“That first 45 was as good as I’ve seen us play in my two and a bit years here,” he said. “All the hours you work with the players, talking about moving, making angles and playing two-touch, we ticked all of those boxes.
YouTube: PREMIER LEAGUE 2 HIGHLIGHTS: West Ham United vs Newcastle United
“We played high-pressure stuff and then tidied up and played ourselves. The first half was a masterclass. Marcus Browne was fantastic. He caused Newcastle no end of problems, and we’re talking about a very good team here.
“They’re experienced and have a lot of players who have played League football, throughout the team. That should be noted.”
Westley also confirmed that there were numerous scouts in attendances and that he hopes to field some calls this week.
“To play the way we played is so pleasing. Yes, I’m pleased to win two games and part of their learning is about winning, but it’s the style and philosophy that is so pleasing. That’s a consequence of all the staff that demand that.
“There were a number of scouts here tonight – let’s see if I get some calls this week!”
Other players besides Samuelsen who could be had on loan include the likes of Alex Pike, Marcus Browne and Antonio Martinez.
Twitter: Summer signing @AntonioMtnez_29 has scored three goals in two #PL2 games for #WHUFC so far! (via @WestHamSocial) https://t.co/BEWuj6tSDG (@ReadWestHam)
Pike spent time on trial with League One side Charlton earlier this summer ahead of a proposed season-long loan move but the Addicks decided to pursue other options.
Browne has been on the fringes of the first team lately but a loan move could be best for his long-term development while Martinez, scorer of two goals on the night and three in two PL2 games could also be best served sent out on loan to play week in, week out in the English Football League.
