West Ham have of late seen various Academy prospects being moved on from the club which has raised some concerns amongst fans, however ExWHUEmployee has shed light on the situation.

The club is famed for its Academy of Football, which has produced the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, Mark Noble and Declan Rice over the years – which in-turn raises hopes over who maybe is next next to make the step up to the first team for our Hammers.

Over the last year however, concern has risen in East London with the continuing departures of Academy players – some of which the club had previously stated they had many high hopes for in the future.

Even in January, West Ham oversaw the departures of Manny Longelo to Birmingham City, Pierre Ekwah to Sunderland and Will Greenidge to Colchester – along with Harrison Ashby heading to Newcastle.

The departures has prompted confusion amongst the fan base, with many questioning the motive behind the exits. However, The West Ham Way Podcast co-host and famed ITK ExWHUEmployee, has advised the reasoning behind the moves.

The clubs U18’s this season have been in exceptional form, currently sitting top of the domestic league having won 14 out of the 16 matches played to date, whilst also reaching the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup.

Ex has advised that there are such high hopes for a number of players within that group, that the club have therefore decided to start creating space in the next year group in the hope to progress these talented players towards to the first team.

“The club are making way for this outstanding group of U18’s. Having spoken to people well placed within the club and Academy, they see a few in the U18’s that can go on to be top Premier League talents.

“So although its sad to see others depart the club, there is a reason. And its an exciting one.”