---
title: "‘Back where it belongs’ – Lewis Orford sends West Ham promotion message"
canonical: "https://readwestham.com/2026/08/01/back-where-it-belongs-lewis-orford-sends-west-ham-promotion-message/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "West Ham News"
published: "2026-08-01T16:15:00Z"
modified: "2026-08-01T16:15:00Z"
---

# ‘Back where it belongs’ – Lewis Orford sends West Ham promotion message

**Lewis Orford has outlined his determination to help West Ham United return to the Premier League after impressing during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against 1. FC Magdeburg.**

Orford had previously appeared from the bench against Southend United, Stevenage and Rangers. He also scored during the 5-0 victory at Stevenage before earning his opportunity from the start in West Ham’s final summer friendly.

The 20-year-old produced an assured midfield display as Maximilian Kilman put West Ham ahead before Falko Michel equalised late on. ReadWestHam covered the game in our [FC Magdeburg 1-1 West Ham match report](https://readwestham.com/2026/08/01/fc-magdeburg-1-1-west-ham-hammers-denied-by-late-equaliser/).

> "I feel that with this manager and the team around me, I can definitely improve the squad."\
> \
> – Lewis Orford [pic.twitter.com/E2a3qUCYKQ](https://t.co/E2a3qUCYKQ)
>
> — Central (@WestHam\_Central) [August 1, 2026](https://x.com/WestHam_Central/status/2083574320450658461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)

## Lewis Orford West Ham breakthrough gathers pace

Orford endured a difficult 2025/26 campaign and spent the first half of the season on loan at Stevenage. However, he believes this season can be different after earning Nuno’s trust during pre-season.

Speaking to the [official West Ham website](https://www.whufc.com/en/news/orford-or-i-want-to-help-get-the-team-back-to-where-it-belongs), Orford said: “Hopefully that changes this year, and I can help get the team back where it belongs.”

He also believes he can improve Nuno’s squad after working hard throughout the summer. His performances have strengthened his case at a time when West Ham are still assessing their midfield options before the transfer window closes.

Orford now hopes to retain his place in the squad when competitive football begins against Portsmouth in the Carabao Cup. West Ham’s Championship campaign follows soon afterwards, with an immediate Premier League return the clear objective.

After starting the summer on the fringes, the Lewis Orford West Ham breakthrough is becoming increasingly difficult for Nuno to overlook.