Mavila ready for Canaries

West Ham United Development Squad's Nathan Mavila is looking forward to facing Norwich City as the Hammers travel to the Canaries' Colney training ground on Thursday fpr a 1pm kick-off

The versatile 19-year-old is one of a number of players to progress to the Dev Squad after making 29 appearances for the U18s last season.

Mavila scored against Norwich on his Hammers debut almost two years ago. Speaking ahead of the clash with the Canaries, he said: "I'm excited for the game, I'm really looking forward to it to be fair.

"Norwich are a very exciting team. They're a very strong attacking side with the two wingers Josh and Jacob Murphy. We know they're a good side and it'll be a tough game."

Last time out the Hammers narrowly lost 2-1 to an experienced Manchester United team which included the likes of Michael Carrick, Tyler Blackett and James Wilson.

"It was really good to face players who have played in the first team and in the Premier League. To play against the likes of Michael Carrick and Tyler Blackett was a good test and one we'll learn from. I think despite losing we did well."

The Dev Squad's recent good performances have yet to translate into points and the Hammers find themselves at the foot of the table while their opponents, Norwich, are just two points ahead.

"We haven't got off to the start we quite wanted results wise. Performance wise we started off slowly but I think we're getting better. We're quite a young squad with more younger players coming through."

Among the younger players who have been involved in the Dev Squad are Josh Pask who recently signed his first professional contract and Reece Oxford who captained the England U17s last week.

"I think the younger players have coped pretty well to be fair, the centre backs Josh Pask, Manny Onariase and Reece Oxford particularly have all done well so far, hopefully that continues."