Neufville signs new deal

England U17 left back Vashon Neufville has committed his future to the Club

West Ham United are delighted to announce that England U17 left-back Vashon Neufville has signed a new contract with the Club.

The highly-rated prospect joined the Hammers Academy at U11 level from Chelsea and has since progressed through the youth ranks, making his Development Squad debut aged just 15.

Neufville played an integral part for the U18s last season, making 22 appearances, scoring once.

Speaking after committing his future to the Club, the livewire left-back said: “I’m very pleased to have signed my contract, I just can’t wait to get back playing now.

“I love West Ham, I’m very happy to have signed a new three year deal. It’s nice to get my scholarship here but to get the professional deal too is a dream come true.

“This is the best moment of my career. I’ve had several good moments in a West Ham shirt but this is definitely the best.”

Neufville, still only 15 years of age, has signed a scholarship and will turn professional on his 17th birthday.

He said:  “It’s a very proud moment. Making my U21 debut last season at 15 was a good achievement and hopefully I can push on from here.

“I remember being pretty nervous before the game but the older boys came up to me and told me not to worry. I think I did OK. My target for next season is to be in and around the U21s next season.

“It’s a very exciting time to be at West Ham. I hope one day to make my debut in the new Stadium, if not before. I can’t wait to go to the new Stadium, I went there a few months ago for a tour. It was an amazing place and an amazing experience. It was very moving, an eye-catching stadium.”

Academy manager and head of coaching and player development Terry Westley added: “Vashon signing for us is great news for the Academy and the Club. He’s an England U17 international and he was very sought after.

“We’re delighted that he has decided to stay at West Ham. He’s seen the development plan we’ve put in place for him and he’s decided that this is the best place for him.

“He likes the way we work here, he enjoys training and there’s a good group of players here. This is the place he wants to be. It’s a big lift for us because he’s one of the best players for his age group in the country.

“He’s already played U21 football, he’s a modern attacking left back, he’s quick, he likes to get forward.

"We’ll get to work on 1 July and put that plan in practise. We’re expecting big things from him.”