West Ham United have unearthed another academy gem in Oliver Scarles. The 19-year-old is enjoying a breakthrough season and has been making waves in the first team.
His performances have caught the eye since Graham Potter gave him his first domestic start in the FA Cup defeat against Aston Villa back in January.
He has followed that up with standout displays in the Premier League.
Scarles made his full Premier League debut in the 1-0 win against Arsenal and was named man of the match.
After making a lasting impression in the London derby, Scarles seems to have cemented his spot in the Hammers XI after starting subsequent games against Leicester City and Newcastle United.
The talented teenager has featured 10 times in the Premier League this season, although he has started just three times – all of which came in his last three games.
He has helped West Ham keep two clean sheets and won a highly impressive 60% of his ground duels. He’s also averaging 1.4 tackles and 2.8 ball recoveries per 90 minutes.
Scarles’ composed and energetic performances haven’t gone under the radar.
Potter has cautiously lavished praise on the Hammers prodigy and made it clear that the youngster has a bright future ahead.
“He’s been really good since we’ve come in,” Potter said.
“It’s a big thank you to the academy because that type of player is (rare). And person as well — he’s a really good character.
“Obviously, I’m saying a lot now, but I need to calm it down because he’s still young and has a lot to do. But there’s a lot to look forward to.”
Scarles’ rapid development could leave Potter and the recruitment team with a major decision to make on the future of Emerson Palmieri.
The Italian left-back has now been forced to settle for a spot on the bench for three consecutive Premier League games.
Be the first to comment