Lewis Orford, a young player from West Ham, has caught David Moyes’ attention. This is especially in light of his performance during the Under-21s’ hard defeat to Ajax on Tuesday, April 9.
The youthful Hammers lost 3-2 in the Premier League International Cup after leading 2-0 against the Dutch team and having Mason Terry save a penalty kick.
On the other hand, Orford may be proud of himself after making an incredible goal from midfield. After stealing the ball from an Ajax player, he struck the ball into the upper corner.
There is very little depth for West Ham in the midfield, particularly with Edson Alvarez down. The 18-year-old youngster may be able to make place for Kalvin Phillips’ displays.
The young midfielder’s versatility, which includes his ability to drop into the center of defense, should pique Moyes’ interest.
In 2022, Orford was likened to Declan Rice and Michael Carrick in an article by The Guardian. John Brewin wrote (27 September 2022): “West Ham continues to be a production line for midfielders and Orford, a lifelong fan, might be the latest to follow Declan Rice, Mark Noble, Frank Lampard, Joe Cole and Michael Carrick.
“His height reminds of Rice and Carrick though he exhibits a greater turn of pace than either, with a range of passing beyond his years that has made him the Hammers’ Under-18 playmaker.”
It would be incredible to think how much the midfielder has developed and improved since then.
Could David Moyes hand Lewis Orford his first West Ham United chance?
Orford has been on the first-team bench on multiple occasions this season, in the Premier League and Europa League, but has not yet stepped foot on the pitch for his debut.
Moyes will be more than aware of his talents and skills, though his goal against Ajax on Tuesday night will still come as a surprise to many.
with all competitions, the youthful talent has five goals and five assists. He particularly shone during West Ham’s EFL Trophy run, which ended with their elimination against Wycombe Wanderers in the round of 16.
Moyes needs to take a chance on Orford, even at the young age of 18, particularly if Phillips keeps making blunders while on loan from Manchester City.
Jamie O’Hara and Jason Cundy debated the newest topic live on air in other West Ham news.
