West Ham Academy stars have been earmarked as players who could be making a significant impact in the game, it has been reported.

A recent article from The Standard naming the 50 best young players coming through the ranks in London academies, e.g, West Ham, Arsenal, Chelsea, Palace e.t.c, highlighted a number of young Hammers in the club’s various youth sides who are tipped for big futures in the game.

1.

Oliver Scarles (18 years old)

Scarles can play as a leftback or in midfield and made his debut at just 16 years old in the Conference League last season, he has been named on the bench as part of David Moyes’ matchday squad on a number of occasions so far this season. Veteran left back Aaron Cresswell is likely to depart in the summer meaning more first team minutes and opportunities may be just around the corner for Scarles.

2.

Lewis Orford (18 years old)

An exciting midfielder who is great on the ball, Orford was a part of the squad that won the FA Youth Cup last season, becoming the first crop of young Hammers to do so in almost 25 years. A lifelong supporter of the club, Orford joined West Ham’s ranks at just 5 years old. Although he is yet to make his first team debut, he has recently featured in a number of matchday squads.

3.

Josh Ajala (17 years old)

Ajala joined West Ham from Chelsea last summer. A pacy striker who scored prolifically at youth level for Chelsea, Ajala has impressed since making the switch to East London. He has scored 11 goals so far this season for Kevin Keen’s side who currently sit top of the U18 Premier League South table.

4.

Daniel Rigge (17 years old)

A number 10 who has an eye for a goal and likes to create, Rigge signed his first professional contract with West Ham in October last year. His goal scoring ability was highlighted after his hat trick in the U18’s win against Aston Villa this month, Rigge has become a key member of Kevin Keen’s squad this season.

5.

Emeka Adiele (17 years old) 

This season is Adiele’s first full season as part of the Hammers U18 squad. A left wing back who poses excellent ability going forward, Adiele has contributed an impressive four goals and four assists so far this season. Adiele is highly rated in the West Ham academy and considered an exciting prospect.

6.

Chinaza Nwosu (15 years old)

A central midfielder with a good range of passing, Nwosu has impressed academy staff at the club with his attitude and desire to improve. He has been a regular for England U16’s this season, including as part of their Val de Marne Tournament win in November.