West Ham youngster Ezra Mayers has outlined his ambition to establish himself in Nuno Espírito Santo’s first team.
The 19-year-old has featured throughout pre-season and hopes Saturday’s friendly against 1. FC Magdeburg will provide another valuable senior test.
Mayers was named the Mark Noble Young Hammer of the Year following an impressive breakthrough campaign.
The defender made ten senior appearances last season, including six in the Premier League. He also represented West Ham four times in the FA Cup and earned his first England Under-19 cap.
Speaking to West Ham’s official website, Mayers admitted that following previous winners such as Declan Rice, James Tomkins and Jack Collison gives him confidence.
“It gives you a bit of confidence to go and establish yourself as a first-team player,” he said. “Hopefully, I can kick on this season and become one of those household names. Of course, that’s the dream.”
West Ham youngster Ezra Mayers ready for Germany test
Mayers has appeared in all three of West Ham’s pre-season fixtures and gained experience playing in front of more than 45,000 supporters against Rangers.
The centre-back could receive further minutes against Magdeburg on Saturday. ReadWestHam’s complete Magdeburg versus West Ham preview includes the broadcast details, predicted lineup and latest team news.
The fixture carries additional personal significance for Mayers because his mother is German. He also grew up supporting Bayern Munich and has never previously played in Germany.
“I just want to take it all in and enjoy the moment,” Mayers said. “I’ve never played in Germany before, so it’ll be nice.”
Mayers has praised academy coaches Gerard Prenderville and Steve Potts for helping his development. He believes their honest feedback can improve the smaller details of his game as he pushes for regular senior involvement.
West Ham’s relegation could create more opportunities for academy players during a demanding Championship campaign. Mayers has already demonstrated that he can handle senior football, and another assured performance in Magdeburg would strengthen his claim for a place in Nuno’s squad.
