As Newport County prepare to take on West Ham United U21s in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy, we take a closer look at tomorrow's opposition.
What’s their story?
The West Ham United Reserves competed in the Premier Reserve League South until the first team’s relegation from the Premier League; the side is now classed as a development squad. Friendly games were usually played at Chadwell Heath and other clubs' training grounds.
Since the 2012–13 season, the team has played in the Professional Development League (now branded Premier League 2) for players under the age of 21 and a restricted number of over-age players. Most home matches are played at West Ham's training ground (Rush Green), with three fixtures per season played at the London Stadium, as well as some cup competitions being played at Dagenham and Redbridge F.C.’s Victoria Road stadium.
Who’s the boss?
Mark Robson. Following the arrival of Julen Lopetegui as West Ham's new head coach in the summer, Robson reverted back to his role as under-21's boss, having stepped up to first-team duties to assist former manager David Moyes.
A UEFA Pro Licence holder, Upton Park-born Robson is one of the most highly-respected development coaches in English football, having previously spent more than four years at the Football Association as a National Specialist Coach, working closely with the best young players to progress through the national team pathway into Gareth Southgate’s senior squad.
During his playing career, Robson made 56 appearances across two seasons as a player with the Hammers. In the 1992-93 campaign, the skilful winger played 44 of a possible 46 league games in Claret and Blue, scoring eight goals as West Ham won promotion to the Premier League.
Key Player
Luizão is undoubtedly a player to look out for in the Exiles’ clash with the Hammers' U21 side. Luizão came through the legendary São Paulo youth system which produced iconic players such as Kaka, Cafu, Casemiro, etc. After making 20 appearances and registering one goal for Sao Paulo’s first team, West Ham signed the defensive prospect on a free transfer.
While he has yet to make his first-team debut for the Irons, Luizão has become a key figure in Robins' U21 squad. His experience from playing at the highest level of Brazilian football will provide a real challenge for Newport's attack, as the young defender will aim to use his pedigree to keep the Exiles off the scoresheet.