West Ham youngster, 19 year old Gideon Kodua has spoken to the club’s official website about his experiences of being involved with the first team in the Hammers pre season preparations.

Kodua, who captained West Ham to an FA Youth Cup win last year, has certainly shown his capabilities as a forward in the club’s academy system, famously scoring a phenomenal 30 yard chip in the Youth Cup final against Arsenal last May.

In pre season this summer, the 19 year old has been played at right back or right wing back by new Hammers boss Julen Lopetegui. Whilst the position is unfamiliar to Kodua and naturally took him time to familiarise himself with, his skill set suggests a defensive position is somewhere he could excel also of course being able to use his attacking capabilities to cause problems from wide positions.

Speaking to West Ham TV following the Hammers 3-1 pre season defeat to Crystal Palace, Kodua discussed how he is ready to show that he can put in good performances wherever he is asked to play.

“It’s been a really good experience. We’ve had a new gaffer come in, so it was always going to be a challenge learning the new tactics he wants us to play, but I think, as the season goes on, we’ll do well.” said Kodua.

The Newham born forward is clearly hungry to succeed and eager to get more opportunities to showcase his talents in claret and blue: “It’s about first team experience really, getting in the managers eye and trying to impress, and just taking my opportunity.”

Discussing his experiences of playing in a brand new position, the 19 year old said: “I think I have adapted and kind of shown myself in a new position. It’s a weird one, playing in a new position, but I think I’ve done well. It’s about showing I’m versatile and it’s been a good challenge, really.”