The prestigious Academy of Football has a legacy of producing top talents in Europe, with legends like Bobby Moore, Rio Ferdinand, and Frank Lampard honing their skills within the West Ham youth system.
The current crop of youngsters in the U21s and U18s teams shows a lot of promise and potential. Among them, 17-year-old centre-back Josh Briggs stands out after joining from Linfield in 2022. He has impressed at youth level, even scoring in their FA Youth Cup final win last season. Finally, his hard work has paid off with a professional contract, fulfilling his lifelong dream.
With his family by his side, Briggs feels proud to sign with West Ham and take the first step towards a professional career in football. He acknowledges the challenges ahead but is determined to keep working hard and improving.
Having Gareth McAuley as a manager in Northern Ireland’s youth teams has been beneficial for Briggs, as he receives valuable guidance from the former centre-back. Moving up to the U21s under the supervision of Kenny Brown signifies a new chapter in Briggs’ football journey.
Brown praises Briggs for his dedication on and off the pitch, highlighting his positive attitude and potential for success. The young defender’s family, teammates, and coaches are excited to see what the future holds for him at West Ham United.
