Regan Clayton knocking on Nuno’s door for West Ham debut, Premier League 2 announcement shows why
Regan Clayton has been nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Month award for February.
Between now and the end of the campaign, there may not be too many minutes for West Ham’s young talent, but when there is, Clayton will be one of the first.
The 21-year-old has had an excellent campaign with the Under-21s, and has played a key role in their rise up the table into eighth off the back of two wins in a row.
And his development hasn’t gone unnoticed, with the left-back nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Month award for his performances throughout February.
How did Regan Clayton fare for West Ham in February?
West Ham’s Under-21s may have won just two of their five Premier League 2 fixtures in February, but Clayton’s performances remained strong throughout.
The 21-year-old started the month with an assist in the 3-3 draw with Middlesbrough, and has also registered an assist against Crystal Palace and Leicester, while also doing the same against Tamworth in the National League Cup Semi-final.
His goal involvement for the month takes him up to seven for the season, which is the main reason behind his nomination.
However, it is his all-round game that has caught the eye this season, with 50 duels won, 20 tackles made, and 16 fouls won.
When could Clayton make his mark at senior level?
For Clayton to make the step-up this season, it would require quite the shift.
El Hadji Malick Diouf has made that position his own in the Premier League, and barring injury, that is unlikely to change anytime soon, given the performances he has showcased since he joined the club last summer.
With that said, the Senegal international has already been mooted for a move away from the London Stadium, and those fears will grow stronger if West Ham are relegated to the Championship.
While a drop down to the second tier would be detrimental as a whole to the Irons, it would serve as a benefit for the likes of Clayton and other West Ham youngsters, who would be given a clear path to the first team.
For more expert analysis and news on West Ham United, check out Football Insider for the latest updates.