Ferdinand sends four-word message to Fearon after West Ham debut v Man United
West Ham look to have another gem on their hands in their youth set-up.
Preston Fearon, 18, made his first-team debut for the Hammers against Manchester United in their pre-season fixture in New Jersey, USA.
For those in E20 wanting to watch the game, it came in the early hours of Sunday morning (27 July) as Graham Potter’s men fell to a 2-1 defeat.
Despite the loss, Potter and Co. will be happy with what they saw from Fearon during his ten-minute cameo, as the young midfielder gained plenty of plaudits on social media for his performance.
Ferdinand congratulates Fearon on West Ham debut
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Lucas Paqueta and his future in a claret and blue shirt, the Brazilian was also utilised as a substitute for Potter in the game.
West Ham’s engine room could be set to be transformed next season, with both Harvey Elliott and Romao Schmid linked with a move to the London Stadium.
Fearon could also be set to get more first-team minutes next season, with the teenager clearly catching the eye of Potter and the rest of his coaching staff for them to involve him in their pre-season tour fixtures in America.
West Ham posted a photo of their talented midfielder in action on their Instagram account (27 July), with former player Anton Ferdinand sending Fearon a message in the comment section.
“Congratulations on your debut,” said Ferdinand, who made 138 appearances for the Irons between 2003 and 2008.
The past few weeks will live long in the memory of Fearon, who also recently won the Dylan Tombides award, which is given annually to the Academy of Football’s outstanding scholar.
West Ham cannot get carried away with Fearon cameo
Although Fearon impressing in his first-team debut is undoubtedly a positive, Potter will know that he still needs investment in his midfield before the new Premier League season.
If the Hammers want to re-establish themselves as a team that can compete in Europe, they simply cannot rely on an 18-year-old to play for them week in, week out.
Elliott is the player that David Sullivan should be splashing the cash on in the summer; however, a loan deal with an option to buy for the Liverpool player would still be an incredible piece of business.
Wilfred Ndidi would be another solid addition to Potter’s midfield, with the Nigerian also attracting interest from the likes of Manchester United, Everton and Juventus.
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