West Ham United’s Under-21s produced an impressive performance to beat Juventus Next Gen 3-1 at Victoria Road last night, with three different players getting on the scoresheet in the Premier League International Cup.
Harry Montague, Tyrone Omotoye and Jethro Medine scored for the Hammers, who recovered from conceding an equaliser just before half-time to claim their second victory in three matches in the competition. The result moves Mark Robson’s side up to third in Group A with six points.
However, perhaps the most interesting aspect of the evening came from Robson’s comments afterwards. With Scott Parker now in charge of the West Ham first team, the academy coach made it clear that he hoped some of his youngsters had caught the attention of the senior coaching staff.
West Ham Youngsters Impress Against Juventus
According to the official West Ham match report, the Hammers dominated much of the opening half and took the lead in the 29th minute.
Preston Fearon delivered a dangerous free-kick into the penalty area, where Montague was on hand to finish from close range.
Juventus equalised through Marco Tiozzo in the 43rd minute, but West Ham continued to create opportunities after the break.
Omotoye restored the lead in the 58th minute, finishing clinically from Jephthah Medine’s cross, before Jethro Medine converted a stoppage-time penalty to complete a thoroughly deserved victory.
Robson was particularly pleased with the contribution of several younger players who had stepped up from the Under-18s.
Robson Hopes West Ham First-Team Staff Took Notice
Speaking to the club’s official website, Robson said:
“We were miles better on the ball than we have been in recent games. I was really pleased with the performance.”
The former West Ham midfielder also highlighted the increased energy and aggression his side displayed compared with their previous defeat against Monaco.
However, it was his final observation that stood out.
“Hopefully, one or two of the lads impressed the first team staff that might have been here this evening.”
It’s an interesting comment given the recent managerial change at West Ham.
As Claret & Hugh recently reported, Robson returned to his Under-21 coaching role during the summer after previously working with the senior squad.
That experience should put him in a good position to judge which youngsters might eventually be capable of making the step up.
There have already been encouraging signs from young players in the first team this season, and Parker will undoubtedly be keen to assess the talent available throughout the club.
Of course, performing well against Juventus Next Gen is very different from playing Championship football. Nevertheless, the academy continues to provide reasons for optimism.
The result also follows another impressive European performance against Valencia earlier in the competition.
West Ham’s next International Cup fixture is against Jong Genk in December, while Robson’s side return to domestic cup action against Brighton Under-21s on 23 November.