- West Ham United announces professional contract for Lewis Beckford
- The Hammers are 18th in the Premier League
- Beckford has risen through the club’s ranks since joining the Under-9 side
West Ham United announced that academy starlet Lewis Beckford has signed his first professional contract with the Hammers on Friday morning.
Despite most of the focus firmly on the first team and their bid for Premier League survival, West Ham are understandably intent to tie up their future regardless of their end-of-season outcome.
Nuno Espírito Santo’s side are 18th in the relegation zone, with their upcoming fixture against Arsenal on Sunday taking on even more significance with three matches to go.
Lewis Beckford signs first professional deal
Since Beckford joined the Irons’ academy at the Under-9 level, the 18-year-old has rapidly risen through the age groups.
“I feel like I’ve worked really hard to get here,” the Integral Sports Management client said after penning his new deal at Rush Green Training Ground. “Signing a professional contract means everything to me.”
“I’m just very grateful to everyone who has helped me get here, my family, friends and coaches.
“I was very nervous in the meeting when I found out because football is such a big part of my life. Getting that news was one of the best moments of my life.”
This season, Beckford has emerged as a key player in the club’s Under-18 side, registering 29 appearances throughout all competitions for Liam Smith’s young Hammers and contributing to 13 goals, one of which West Ham supporters selected as the Goal of the Month for January.
The elegant playmaker first flicked the ball over the head of his bamboozled marker during the FA Youth Cup fourth-round game to Everton, then used his weaker right foot to volley into the far corner. The inventive effort would not be enough, though, as West Ham bowed out of the prestigious competition on penalties.
Beckford also made his Under-21 debut this season, playing the entire ninety minutes in a 1-0 Premier League International Cup triumph over RSC Anderlecht. He was recently on the bench for the side’s game against Tottenham Hotspur in April aswell.
“Over the next few years, it’s a big opportunity for me to kick on. Every young player dreams of breaking into the first team and being able to train there regularly. Making my debut one day for my boyhood club would be a dream come true,” the hopeful graduate said.
