Reece Oxford makes sad announcement in setback for the former West Ham wonderkid
West Ham have produced numerous players over the years who have gone on to be world-class.
Declan Rice is perhaps the most well-known former Hammers academy player after the Englishman moved to Arsenal in 2023.
On top of this, Chelsea legend and current Coventry City manager Frank Lampard also started his career at West Ham.
Another star who was tipped for greatness was Reece Oxford. However, the former wonderkid has now hit another setback in his footballing career.
Oxford announces Augsburg departure after sidelined season
Oxford burst onto the scene at West Ham at 16 years old when he starred in the Hammers’ 2-0 victory over Arsenal back in August 2015.
However, after a series of loan moves, he was finally let go from the London Stadium in 2019 as he joined German side Augsburg permanently.
Here, he started well, and he played a key role in three successive seasons at the Augsburg Arena.
| Reece Oxford’s West Ham career | |
| Appearances | 17 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Honours | Young Hammer of the Year x1 |
However, a battle with the long-term effects of COVID-19 in summer 2022 saw his place in the side diminish, and he hasn’t made a single appearance for the senior team since November 2022.
Now, Oxford has announced on Augsburg’s social media (26 May), that he will be leaving the German club at the end of the season.
He said: “I just wanted to say a big thanks for the last six years. Obviously, you haven’t seen me for the last two years.
“But the times when I was playing the fans were always great to me and always kept me going through the hard times as well, even Corona times, which was hard for me.
“So yeah, big thanks and hopefully I can come to a game as soon as next season and I see you guys again. Thank you.”
West Ham should allow Oxford to train at the London club to help him return to fitness
At just 26 years old, Oxford should have a long career ahead of him. If the defender can overcome his issues with COVID-19, there is no doubt that he will be able to find a new club.
However, in the meantime, West Ham should offer Oxford a place to train if he returns to England.
The defender is a local lad and an academy product. Therefore, the Hammers should look out for one of their own.
Hopefully, Oxford returns to the pitch as soon as possible and starts to enjoy his football once again.