West Ham youngster Lennon Peake made his return to Hammers action over the weekend.

The 20-year-old has struggled with knee injuries throughout his fledgling career thus far and has undergone two separate surgeries.

Now, though, he has returned to action, playing against Manchester City at the weekend.

It was his first run-out since February 2020, such have been his issues with fitness.

Peake ruptured his ACL, MCL, LCL, and meniscus, a horrendous injury for such a young player, but he is now back playing with the U23s and dreaming of making a breakthrough to the first-team.

The Hammers actually lost against City at the weekend but nothing could wipe the smile from Peake’s face after the game, as he got back to doing what he loves.

Speaking to the club’s official website following his return, Peake said: “Coming back in this game was unbelievable. It meant everything to me. 

“I’ve come back from such a big injury and it’s been over two years for me, so to be back out on the pitch with the boys is such an amazing feeling. It’s great to be back doing what I love. 

“I just wanted to come on and make an impact. I wanted to work hard for the team and I think I was able to do that a bit. It wasn’t the result we wanted but I’m so glad to be back playing.”

Peake explained that, after an issue following his first surgery, he was required to go under the knife a second time, a decision which effectively restarted his recovery process from the very beginning.

“I ruptured my ACL, MCL, LCL and meniscus. I ended up having two surgeries. I had my first one and got things repaired but I had some bits still in my knee, which meant a second surgery.

“It was almost like starting again. It’s been a long journey, a long road, but it’s great to be back. I’ll never take playing football for granted ever again.”

The Irons kids lost 4-1 to City and Peake will now be aiming to establish himself in the side moving forward.