U 23s get big Manchester “reward”

Martinez – on the mark again

Academy coach Liam Manning was thrilled with a 3-0 win over Manchester United U23s claiming it to be a deserved reward.

Grady Diangana, Toni Martinez and Martin Samuelsen secured victory for the Hammers away at the Red Devils, after a month’s break from action.

Mannin said: “The last time we actually played was December 5 .Everton and Tottenham were both called off. It’s a bit bitty because you’re preparing for games and then they are cancelled. It becomes slightly disjointed but it also allows us to really push them on the training pitch.

“I’ll give the boys credit. They were at it all over Christmas and their work rate during that period was fantastic. They got the rewards of that tonight.

“We’re really pleased with the performance as much as the result. The first half, at 11 vs 11, we dominated the game. The possession statistics show we had loads of the ball and then in the second half, the red card plays a little part, but we were still on top and I think we started the second half well.

“Overall, we are really delighted with the performance, and the result as well.”

He added: “Sunday was a great experience for those boys, being around the manager and going to Shrewsbury. Then the big challenge tonight was for them to come and deliver, and that is what we expect of them. It was great for them, and then around that we had four schoolboys start tonight,”