Now that the ‘pathway’ through from academy football to first team calls-up has been created with the Scarles effect in full swing, it can only be a matter of time before Hammers’ under 21 number nine gets his shot at senior football.
Josh Ajala scored again last night – a really good half volley after receiving the ball on the edge of the box and firing past Leicester’s keeper.
That is a total of ten goals now for the young Striker this season, and surely form like that, with West Ham needing forward players who can put the ball in the next, can only result in more opportunity knocking for the youngster.
The 18 year old is already an England development squad international and has trained with the Hammers’ first team – Lopetegui did bring Ajala into the senior squad at the end of 2024.
It cannot be long before Ajala finds himself moving up in the world: This summer’s rebuild is an excellent opportunity for the young Hammer to impress the boss when the summer tour to the USA beckons.
Sadly, after taking the lead, Hammers’ u21’s lost 3-2 with Lewis Orford having a penalty well saved and then Leicester scoring the winner in the last few minutes. Great entertainment for free streamed on West Ham’s YouTube channel – and a super advert for West Ham’s academy.
Agree with the ‘not yet’ comments. Didn’t see much more from the lad other than the goal. The strike was pretty ordinary. More hopeful than assured.
More time and experience can make the difference between Sunday league and full-on professional competence.
Hope he progresses and makes a real career in the game. It will take lots of application and attitude though.
Needs a full session in championship or league 1, U21 football is nowhere near even league 1 level, but he needs proper game time.
I watched the game last night. It’s at a very low level compared with the first team. Those young players have huge step ups to make if they’re going to make it.
I would like to see the kid given a chance as happened with Scarles. I doubt it though because we have a Brazilian kid continually warming the bench. We are not getting relegated, so try something new please. Ideal time to experiment.
Realistically too soon to expect a move up to the first team. A season away to say a decent league 1 side would now be the best option.