When speaking to reporters last night, David Moyes absolutely raved about Jeremy Ngakia’s display for West Ham against Liverpool, as quoted by Football.London.
The 19-year-old made his second senior appearance for the Hammers last night, and coincidentally, both of those have come against the Merseysiders.
Many expected Ngakia to struggle against Sadio Mane and Andy Robertson last night. But the teenager was not overawed by his opponents or the Anfield atmosphere.
He passed the test with flying colours. And he has now surely cemented his place in the side. Certainly whilst Ryan Fredericks remains out injured at least.
And Moyes didn’t hold back in his praise of Ngakia, when speaking to reporters after last night’s 3-2 defeat to Liverpool, as quoted by Football.London:
“Jeremy was terrific. I have to say, he’s played two first team games and both of them against Liverpool and I thought tonight he was fabulous. Mane has been as good as anyone in Europe, would give any top full back a run for his money and I thought that young Jez did a great job on him. Some times you put the young boys in and they give you great hope. Very good, he was.”
Ngakia showed no fear last night. But his performance was so much more than that.
He showcased his pace, attitude and commitment to the cause. The 19-year-old’s positional sense and defensive discipline was also mightily impressive.
West Ham have a rich history of bringing through young and incredibly talented players. Throughout the years, the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard and Joe Cole have come through their academy.
And it seems as though Ngakia is the latest name who could go on to become a real star from the Hammers youth system.
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