Marcus Browne has been nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Month award for the second time this campaign with his inclusion on the shortlist for April. The 20-year-old captained the Hammers’ U23s as they finished the season in fifth spot.
The playmaker, who was also shortlisted – as voted by opposition managers – for the February award, played a huge part in development squad’s performances throughout the month.
He began April by scoring the only goal of the game – an unstoppable 25-yard free-kick away at Manchester City.
Browne was at it again days later as he scored all his side’s four goals in the thrashing-to-nil victory over Everton on Merseyside to take his tally for the season to six.
The youngster picked up an assist against Arsenal as he set-up Domingos Quina who grabbed a late consolation strike in the 3-1 loss.
Browne has been named on the first team bench on two occasions so far this season, for the clashes against Swansea City away and Burnley at home.
Marcus Browne is probably close to regular inclusion in the first team squad.
He could play an important link between Lanzini and Arnautovic
Marcus Browne is already 20 and as far as I am aware has yet to be given a chance at senior level in the league. I think he played in our ill fated Europa Cup matches last season and looked like he had promise. A year later, he is still waiting. Why do we not blood our youngsters more frequently and find out if they have got it, rather than leave it too late. Apart from Declan Rice and a few games (mainly cup) for Josh Cullen and Toni Martinez etc., younger players haven’t had much of a look in. The team desparately needs more youthful energy and drive, but it makes you wonder about the whole point and purpose of the Development Squad. Watching a young player from the ranks make his mark in the team was an exciting part of watching football but has become a rare event in the Premier League.