He’s the talk of the east end and beyond this morning and even he is having trouble believing what happened last night!
Remember the name – Grady Diangana. It’s not going to be hard because we are undoubtedly going to be hearing a lot more of it.
And after a two goal debut in first team colours in the 8-0 drubbing of Macclesfield Town he spoke of his emotions on a stunning first outing for the Irons first team.
Speaking to West Ham TV he said: “I never thought my debut would be like that. I’ve always dreamed about it, but for it to actually happen, I never really expected it.
“The first goal I picked up in the middle and I’ve turned, and tried to make space to shoot. I saw Powell and played the one-two, and I shot in with my right. For the second I saw the space in behind, Powelly played me in and I was able to just finish.
“I don’t usually score goals so I’m really happy.”
The Academy graduate was one of three players to make their West Ham bow on Wednesday, with Conor Coventry and Joe Powell coming off the bench for the Irons.
Diangana revealed it was only on the day of the game that he was told he was starting the match, and the encouragement given to him by the coaching staff and his fellow players spurred him to a top performance.
He continued: “It was only this morning that I found out that I would be starting. I just tried to get my own mind ready, and I’m really happy for the result.
“The first thing I was told by the manager and the staff was to be fearless and enjoy myself. They wanted me to play simple in the middle third, and express myself.
“The experienced players made my debut really easy for me. They spoke to me before the game and during the game, just giving me advice.”
Having now made such an impressive first appearance for the Hammers, Diangana is looking to continue improving and registering more showings for Pellegrini’s side.
“Hopefully I can kick on now. I want to keep getting opportunities and I will work hard for those opportunities.”Qm5FVl.99