Lewis Orford was a shining light on a bad day for West Ham in the loss to Crystal Palace.

Although it wasn’t the result and performance that many were hoping for, it did have a big moment in the game, when Head Coach Graham Potter showed trust in our Academy, by introducing Ollie Scarles and Orford when we were trailing.

The atmosphere was nervy throughout however the introduction of the duo lifted the crowd significantly, and ExWHUEmployee shared his thoughts on a huge moment for our Academy of Football.

“I am delighted for Lewis Orford to finally make his long awaited debut for the club,” said our club insider. “He has a lot of talent and anyone who watches the under 21s for the club or England can see that.

“It was a difficult game to come into with no movement up front, no forwards and generally a poor performance all round. I felt he kept hold of the ball well, which was clearly his instruction and also showed for the ball and wanted it regularly.

“As the games go on and he gains experience and confidence West Ham fans will see the qualities that he has.”

Orford also expressed his pride in making his bow for the club he and his family hold close to their hearts, which is undoubtedly just the start for a player who the club have high hopes for.

“I started coming to training at this Club when I was five years old and I’ve been here ever since, so 13 odd years now,” Orford told clubs Official Website. “So obviously it’s a really proud moment for me and also my family, who are big West Ham fans.

“I’ve been working hard in training since the new manager’s come in and obviously he’s trusted me today.

“It was a tough game to come into, obviously being 1-0 down. I thought we kept the ball well but just couldn’t score, and it’s ended up 2-0.”

Orford highlighted the impact following the arrival of Potter, which will no doubt be a huge lift towards the clubs Academy players, with a newfound trust in giving our players the opportunity.

“I’ve been training with the first team ever since [Potter’s] come in,” added Orford.

“It’s good for the other boys in the Academy too because they know they’ve got something to work towards and if they’re good enough then they’ll get the opportunity.

“Hopefully I can stay in the squad and make as many appearances as I can. Like I said, just push on from this day because it’s a very proud moment for me and also for my family.”