It was a proud moment for Academy graduates Ollie Scarles and Lewis Orford recently. Both were presented with their Premier League debut balls. The pair were recognised for reaching a significant career milestone after making their top flight debuts in the 24/25 campaign.

19 year old Ollie Scarles made his first team debut two and a half years ago in the Europa Conference League away against FCSB. He was rewarded with his Premier League debut earlier this season in West Ham’s 1-1 draw against Bournemouth.

The second half of the 24/25 season has been a breakthrough few months for Scarles, the full back went on to make 15 appearances for the Hammers in all competitions. Much to the delight of supporters Scarles produced a number of standout performances.

Scarles managed to resign Italian international Emerson to the bench at times, an impressive feat given that Emerson has been an ever present in West Ham’s first team ever since joining from Chelsea in the summer of 2022.

In a season that has seen him establish himself as a first team regular, Scarles was awarded the Mark Noble Young Hammer of the Year award in recognition of his seamless transition into the first team. Reflecting on the season and his recent progression, Scarles said: “It’s been a good season, my breakthrough season, and I’ve enjoyed every moment,” it was reported by the clubs Official Website.

The fullback continued: “This Club means so much to me and I just want to thank the Club and all the staff and coaches who’ve helped me become the Premier League player I am today.”

Fellow academy graduate Lewis Orford has made plenty of noise at academy level for a long time now and is a player who fans have been waiting to see given a first team opportunity. Whilst Orford did not establish himself in the first team like Scarles, he was finally given his first opportunities with the first team.

He made his Premier League debut in January, coming off the bench to play 34 minutes against Crystal Palace, and also came on as a second half substitute at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea in early February.

At U21 level, Orford has enjoyed an exceptional campaign. Orford finished the campaign on a high, recording nine goal contributions in his last seven Premier League 2 appearances. Like Scarles, Orford has been recognised for a succesful season by being nominated for the Premier League 2 player of the season award.

Looking ahead to next season, it is interesting to compare where things stand for both Orford and Scarles. With Scarles and looking at his position, Aaron Cresswell, who Scarles has praised for how he has helped support and guide him, is leaving the club this summer. It will be interesting to see where Emerson’s future lies.

The former Chelsea man uploaded a rather cryptic Instagram story following the Hammers final game of the season. This led many to speculate whether he may also move on this summer and perhaps seek a return to Italy having previously played for Palermo and Roma. Whether Emerson stays or leaves and another left back joins, Scarles has done more than enough to warrant further opportunities and remain in and around the first team.

Although he has impressed, whether he should go into next season as the club’s starting left back is debatable. Competing for the left back position, and continuing to rack up first team appearances, would likely benefit him more in the long run, giving him the experience he needs to refine areas of his game and develop into a more complete player.

Looking ahead to next season as far as Lewis Orford is concerned, in what is expected to be a summer of big changes at West Ham, Graham Potter and the club’s recruitment team will likely look to spend money on midfielders. Going into next season the Hammers midfield needs more pace, power, athleticism and player/s with an engine.

Additionally both Freddie Potts and George Earthy are returning to West Ham after successful Championship loan spells, should either or both impress during pre season they will likely work their way into Graham Potter’s first team plans.

All things considered, opportunities at West Ham could end up quite limited for Lewis Orford next season. It is clear the 19 year old midfielder has surpassed academy level football and needs consistent opportunities at first team level. A loan to a League One or Championship side would be the best next step for Orford’s development. A season of consistent game time at first team level would help him mature and give him a fantastic chance to showcase his capabilities at a level more competitive and demanding than U21s football.