AliousWest Ham United has announced that Ollie Scarles, a promising young talent from their academy, has signed a new long-term contract with the club. This development follows similar commitments from other members of West Ham’s successful 2023 FA Youth Cup-winning squad, including Kaelan Casey, George Earthy, Patrick Kelly, Callum Marshall, Regan Clayton, Gideon Kodua, and Lewis Orford.
Scarles, who joined West Ham at the age of eleven, has been a crucial part of the club’s recent youth successes. He played a significant role in the team that achieved a remarkable double, winning both the Premier League South and the FA Youth Cup in the 2022/23 season. His potential was further highlighted when he made his senior debut at just 16 years and 326 days old in a UEFA Europa Conference League match against FCSB, which West Ham won 3-0.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the new contract, Scarles said, “I’ve loved every minute of my experience at West Ham since I joined as an eleven-year-old boy. I know the Club inside out. It’s the best thing that’s happened to me.” He went on to mention his memorable experiences, including winning the FA Youth Cup and making his first-team debut, and expressed his desire to build on these achievements and progress further at the club.
After recovering from a back injury that sidelined him for the latter part of last season, Scarles has returned to form, playing a key role in the U21s’ strong start in the Premier League 2 campaign. He aims to continue performing well with the U21s and harbors ambitions of breaking into the first team, especially if West Ham qualifies for European competition again.
Scarles’ versatility, allowing him to excel in multiple positions, has caught the attention of many at the club, including former captain and current Sporting Director Mark Noble. The young player praised Noble’s impact on his career, noting the guidance and support he’s received. Noble, in turn, expressed high hopes for Scarles, recalling how he recognized the player’s potential even in his younger years.
Noble emphasized the importance of providing the right pathways for young talents like Scarles, stating, “It’s so important that we as a Club do the right thing and ensure the best pathways for our players and Ollie is definitely one of them.” He highlighted Scarles’ intelligence on the pitch, which allows him to play various positions effectively.
The Hammers’ record Premier League appearance-maker also stressed the need for patience, given Scarles’ young age of 18, while expressing the club’s high aspirations for his future. Noble concluded by hoping this would be the first of many contracts for Scarles at West Ham.
The club concluded the announcement by congratulating Scarles on his new contract and wishing him success in his future with West Ham United.
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